Shopping local is always on the itinerary whenever you travel and visit someplace new. Whether you are looking for a gift for someone back home or a trinket to keep for memories, shopping local stores is a great way to find what you need. Sure, you can always go to the big box stores, but you will just find items that you can easily find back home. Instead, support the local community here around the Smoky Mountains by visiting a Smoky Mountain farmers market in town. You will be able to enjoy perusing a variety of farmers and craft markets that allow local vendors to sell their goods. Let us help you find the best local farmers and craft markets here in the Smoky Mountains:
Smoky Mountain Farmers & Artisans Markets
There is one place in the Smoky Mountains that will instantly have you feel like a local. Of course, we are talking about the Smoky Mountain Farmers & Artisans Markets and all that it has to offer! This local farmers market can be found over in Bryson City and brings together all of the local farmers and growers into one place. This seasonal market is open during the summer, taking advantage of the sunny days here in the area. The Smoky Mountain Farmers & Artisans Markets is more than just a market and is also a gathering space for everyone. In between your shopping you will have access to picnic tables to enjoy food with local musicians playing some fun tunes. The market is always pet friendly for friendly dogs on a leash. The market is open rain or shine with the rare exception of heavy downpours.
Speaking of shopping, you will find some of the freshest produce sourced from local farmers perfect to add into your meal back at your vacation rental. You will also find local artisans that offer handcrafted items perfect for a gift for yourself or for a loved one back home. The Smoky Mountain Farmers & Artisans Markets takes place in Downtown Bryson City at 117 Island Street. The market will run every Friday and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM during the months May through October.
Asheville City Market
Of course there are always closer markets to our vacation rentals right here around Asheville. This includes the annual Asheville City Market located in Downtown Asheville. This is Asheville’s top market each year and is a “producer only” market, meaning only local farmers and artisans are able to participate in the event. You will be able to browse a variety of goods from bakers, farmers, jewelers, sculptures, soap makers, and many more. Finding the perfect gift to take back home has never been easier. The Asheville City Market can be found between Woodfin Street and East Walnut Street during the months of April through December. As the weather becomes colder in the winter the market will take itself inside the Asheville Masonic Temple. The market runs every Saturday during this time from 9:00 AM to noon.
North Asheville Tailgate Market
For the oldest market in town head on over to the North Asheville Tailgate Market. You will find a similar feature of local farmers, bakers, chefs, artisans, and more that this market that offers more than just produce. This market is ideal for those who want to explore a smaller sized market and avoid some of the busy areas. The North Asheville Tailgate Market is located on the UNC Asheville Campus Commuter Lot #C during the months of April through November. Don’t miss out on this market that runs from 8:00 AM to noon each Saturday of the season.
Other Asheville Tailgate Markets
There really is no shortage of markets here in Asheville and the North Asheville Tailgate Market is not the only tailgate market. You will find three other tailgate markets throughout the year on different days to ensure you have plenty of opportunities to shop around. These markets include the West, East, and Black Mountain Tailgate Markets here in Asheville. The West Asheville Tailgate Market is held on Tuesday at 718 Haywood Road from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM from April through November. The East Asheville Tailgate Market is held on Fridays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM from April through October at 954 Tunnel Road. The Black Mountain Tailgate Market is held on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to noon from May through November; this market is located at 130 Montreat. Each market is a great gathering of local vendors and no two visits will ever be the same.
Get Your Shopping On Here Around the Smoky Mountains
Local markets are the perfect way to support the local industry and find some great gifts. Reach out and book one of our vacation rentals today and get ready for the Smoky Mountains.