New Jersey rightfully earns its nickname as the "Garden State," boasting a rich agricultural heritage and producing some of the nation's best produce, from sweet corn and juicy tomatoes to blueberries and peaches. The best way to experience this bounty firsthand is by visiting one of the state's fantastic farmers' markets. While many towns have wonderful weekly markets, several large, historic markets stand out for their sheer size, variety, and long-standing tradition.
A Garden State Bounty: A Guide to New Jersey's Biggest Farmers Markets
Here is a guide to some of the biggest and best farmers' markets in New Jersey.
1. Trenton Farmers Market (Trenton, NJ)
- The Experience: One of the oldest markets in the state, the Trenton Farmers Market has been operating since the 1940s at its current location. It's a sprawling, primarily indoor market that functions as a year-round hub for fresh food and specialty items.
- What to Expect: The market is anchored by numerous produce vendors and several large Amish markets selling fresh meats, poultry, baked goods (including incredible donuts), and cheeses. You'll also find vendors selling a wide range of items, from fresh seafood and Polish delicacies to international groceries and prepared foods.
2. Cowtown Farmers Market (Pilesgrove, NJ)
- The Experience: Cowtown Farmers Market in Salem County is a massive indoor and outdoor market that offers a unique blend of a farmers market, flea market, and live auctions. It has been a South Jersey institution since 1926.
- What to Expect: This sprawling destination offers a vast array of goods. The farmers market section features numerous vendors selling fresh, local produce, while the flea market offers antiques, collectibles, and new merchandise. It's also connected to the Cowtown Rodeo, adding to its unique, country atmosphere. The market operates year-round on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
3. Collingswood Farmers' Market (Collingswood, NJ)
- The Experience: Widely regarded as one of the best and most popular seasonal, open-air markets in the state, the Collingswood Farmers' Market takes over the PATCO station parking lot every Saturday from May through Thanksgiving.
- What to Expect: A vibrant and bustling atmosphere with dozens of vendors. The market is known for its high-quality, Jersey Fresh produce, artisan bread, local cheeses, craft goods, and live music. It's a proper community gathering spot.
4. Burlington County Farmers Market (Moorestown, NJ)
- The Experience: Another top-tier seasonal, open-air market, the Burlington County Farmers Market is held at the Burlington County Agricultural Center. It runs weekly from spring through fall.
- What to Expect: A large and diverse selection of Jersey Fresh produce, alongside vendors selling meats, eggs, honey, baked goods, and crafts. The market often features cooking demonstrations, live music, and activities for children, making it a whole family outing.
5. Columbus Farmers Market (Columbus, NJ)
- The Experience: Similar to Cowtown, the Columbus Farmers Market is a massive complex that combines an indoor food market with a huge outdoor flea market. It is one of the oldest and largest markets of its kind in the Delaware Valley.
- What to Expect: The indoor market features a large Amish market with butchers, bakers, and produce stands. The outdoor flea market is a treasure trove for bargain hunters, with a large section dedicated to new retail goods. It's open year-round, Thursday through Sunday.
New Jersey's farmers' markets are the perfect showcase for the state's agricultural richness. Whether you're exploring the historic, year-round halls of the Trenton Farmers Market, hunting for bargains at the sprawling Cowtown and Columbus markets, or enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere of the seasonal Collingswood and Burlington County markets, you're sure to find delicious, fresh food and an authentic taste of New Jersey.
