Ed.: We can’t wait for warmer weather, so from now until the official start of spring (that’s March 20 — mark your calendars!), we’re delivering our top 15 signs of spring. Check www.hvmag.com daily for more posts.
Countdown to Spring (Day 7): Farmers’ Markets Reopen
The homegrown movement is hot (see our “Homegrown Hudson Valley” cover story here), thanks in large part to the region’s local farmers’ markets. Here are a few we love; find links to more below.
Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market
Voted Best Farmers’ Market in the Hudson Valley by our readers, the Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market offers a diverse selection of farm-fresh products, including fruits and veggies; meats (everything from the standard beef, pork, and poultry to wild game like venison, buffalo, and rabbit); dairy (eggs and cow and sheep’s milk cheeses); honeys and jams; juices; flowers and plants; and smoked products. The outdoor market is open every Sunday from Mother’s Day through Thanksgiving.
Where: 80 East Market St., Rhinebeck
When: Alternate Sundays Dec.-April, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (March 15 & 29, April 12 & 26)
Web site: www.rhinebeckfarmersmarket.com
Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture
Snap up your fresh produce, meat, and eggs here, but beware: though the farm itself is open from Wednesday through Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m), the market is only available for a limited time once per month. Stone Barns sources its baked goods from the Red Barn Bakery (Irvington); dairy from the Amazing Real Live Food Company (Pine Plains); pesto from the Pure Food Sisters; and other assorted products from Samosa Shack and Penny Lick Ice Cream. Make sure you’re around on April 25, when the center hosts its annual Sheep Shearing Festival.
Where: 630 Bedford Rd., Pocantico Hills
When: Sunday, April 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (one Sunday per month)
Web site: www.stonebarnscenter.org
Nyack Farmers’ Market
Presented by the Nyack Chamber of Commerce, this market — which has been going strong since 1997 — allows patrons to purchase locally grown foods and artisan goods while enjoying live music.
Where: Main St. parking lot, Nyack
When: Thursdays beginning April 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Web site: www.nyackchamber.org/nyack-farmers-market
Cold Spring Farmers’ Market
During the winter months, this market is held indoors of the Parish House at St. Mary’s — but once the snow melts, head to its outdoor location on the grounds of Boscobel House & Gardens. The market sells products from local, sustainable farms and vendors. Weekly vendors include All You Knead, Breezy Hill Orchard & Cider Mill, Full Moon Farm, and Om Champagne Tea.
Where: Episcopal Church of St. Mary In the Highlands, 1 Chestnut St., Cold Spring
When: Saturdays, Dec.-May, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Web site: www.csfarmmarket.org
Homegrown Hudson Valley: Organic Farming, How to Choose a CSA, and More
Related: Summer Farmers Markets
Related: Winter Farmers Markets
