By LANNAN M. O’BRIEN
From farm-fresh produce to handcrafted gifts, the treasures sold at your hometown farmers market simply can’t be found anywhere else. It’s more than the quality of the items for sale that draws customers week after week; a farmers market fosters a sense of community through the shared support of local growers and makers.
On the Upper Cape, we’re lucky to now have three farmers markets, each on different days of the week, running through mid-October. With that schedule, why try one when you can visit them all? Consider this your guide to “going to market” for all things local, homemade and homegrown!
NEW: Mashpee
Farmers Market
This year is the first for the Mashpee Farmers Market and, for many community members, it’s already part of their weekly routine. Says market Director Stephanie Viva, “Our first season has been nothing short of spectacular! We have had tremendous support since day one, and our vendors remark weekly that they ‘love the vibe’ at our markets.” Kids programming and wellness activities are offered as part of the event, and the market also provides a space for nonprofits to promote their work.
In addition to a few farmers, this market is heavily gift-focused, with booths featuring locally made clothing, home décor, jewelry, glassware and artwork. It’s worth a visit just for the relaxing atmosphere. Located in the Naukabout Beer Garden at Mashpee Commons, the event opens with “quiet shopping” from 11 AM to noon, followed by live music and family entertainment until 3 PM. Enjoy a craft brew while you shop, then take a leisurely stroll through the Commons!
Sundays, 11 AM-3 PM,
through October 13
4 Job’s Fishing Road, Mashpee
mashpeefarmersmarket.com
Falmouth
Farmers Market
Now in its 16th year, the Falmouth Farmers Market is a beloved town tradition that supports a variety of food and agricultural businesses. Check off your grocery list as you shop for every food group; you’ll find vendors for fresh produce, eggs and dairy, meat and seafood, baked goods and much more. Don’t feel like cooking? Stop by The Quiche Cart for gourmet quiches made with locally sourced ingredients, or visit Donde Thiago for Colombian specialties like arepas and empanadas. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try the decadent, fresh-baked cookies from Hatchville Baking Co.; the s’mores cookie is a “must” if they have it in stock!
Thursdays, 12-5 PM,
through October 17
Marine Park,
180 Scranton Avenue, Falmouth
falmouthfarmersmarket.com
Sandwich/Bourne
Farmers Market
The smell of fresh apple cider doughnuts tempts shoppers at this local market (you’ll regret not stopping for one at the In the Mix booth). Recently relocated from the American Legion to the grounds of The Sagamore (formerly The Sagamore Inn), the Sandwich/Bourne Farmers Market features several area farmers selling fresh produce and meat. It’s also a weekly home to The Scallop Truck, offering dayboat scallops, as well as vendors of baked goods, gourmet cheeses, pickles and sweet treats. Peruse the Lara’s Cuisine booth for a variety of pesto, relishes and spreads to enhance your Italian dishes. After you’ve filled your pantry, treat yourself to a floral arrangement from Sunrise Blossoms or a wine bottle wind chime from Cool Breeze Wind Chimes.
Tuesdays, 9 AM-12 PM,
through October 15
The Sagamore,
1131 Sandwich Road, Bourne;
outside under the tent
sandwichfarmersmarket.com