Central Virginia's farmers' markets bring heart-healthy produce to your backyard
August 07, 2025
Photo by Khürt Williams
by Tanner Lambson
Local farmers' markets provide ready access to many fresh, seasonal, and locally grown foods that support heart health. From vibrant leafy greens and antioxidant-rich berries to lean proteins and whole grains, these markets offer ingredients that align perfectly with a heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet. Shopping local also means fewer preservatives in your foods, more nutrient-dense options, and the opportunity to ask growers directly about their farming practices. Whether you're looking to reduce sodium, increase fiber, or simply eat more colorfully, your local farmers' market is a great place to start.
Exploring farmers' markets is a delicious way to support your health and your community. Here is a list of farmers' markets operating in the communities the Pauley Heart Center serves:
Richmond
Name: Carytown Farmers Market
Location: 3201 Maplewood Ave, Richmond, VA 23221
Dates & Times: Sundays, May–October, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Featured Products: Produce, artisans, baked goods, bluegrass jam (4th Sunday)
Notes: Dog-friendly, parking available, live music
Name: Birdhouse Farmers Market
Location: 1507 Grayland Ave, Richmond, VA 23220
Dates & Times: Tuesdays, May–November, 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM; Online year-round
Featured Products: Fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, crafts
Notes: Live music, petting zoo, composting program
Name: South of the James Farmers Market
Location: Forest Hill Park, Richmond, VA
Dates & Times: Sundays, year-round, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Featured Products: Producer-only goods, food trucks, coffee, donuts
Notes: SNAP accepted, dog-friendly
Name: RVA Big Market
Location: Bryan Park, off Hermitage Rd, Richmond, VA
Dates & Times: Saturdays, year-round, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Featured Products: Dozens of vendors, food trucks, coffee, produce, artisan goods
Notes: Live folk music, bike racks, GRTC accessible
Name: Lakeside Farmers Market
Location: 6110 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA
Dates & Times:
- Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sundays 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesdays (year-round): 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Featured Products: Fresh produce, flowers, baked goods
Notes: Outdoor market, early arrival recommended
Name: RVA Black Farmers Market
Location: Shalom Farms, 1311 Westwood Ave, Richmond, VA
Dates & Times: 2nd & 4th Sundays, June–November, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Featured Products: Produce, handmade goods, community vendors
Notes: Focus on Black-owned farms and businesses
Colonial Heights, VA
Name: Colonial Heights Farmers Market
Location: 2600 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Dates & Times: Saturdays, year-round, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Featured Products: Local produce, grass-fed meats, eggs, honey, baked goods, handcrafted soap
Notes: Community-focused, free parking
Name: River Street Market
Location: 30 River St, Petersburg, VA 23803
Dates & Times: Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Featured Products: Fresh produce, artisan crafts, baked goods
Notes: Producer-only market, vibrant arts and culture vibe
Fredericksburg, VA
Name: Fredericksburg Farmers Market
Location: Prince Edward & George Streets, Fredericksburg, VA
Dates & Times:
- April–October: Saturdays, 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- November–December: Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Wednesdays (May–Aug): 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Featured Products: Produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, herbs
Notes: SNAP accepted, live music, community events
Name: Spotsylvania Farmers Market
Location: Gordon Road Commuter Lot, Spotsylvania, VA
Dates & Times: Saturdays, April–October, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Featured Products: Produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers
Notes: One of the largest markets in the region
Tappahannock, VA
Name: Tappahannock Farmers Market
Location: Water Lane & Prince Street, Downtown Tappahannock
Dates & Times: 3rd Saturday of each month, April–October, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Featured Products: Produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, crafts, flowers
Notes: Live music, prepared foods, festive themes
South Hill, VA
Name: South Hill Farmers Market
Location: 105 W. Danville Street, South Hill, VA
Dates & Times: Saturdays, May–October, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Featured Products: Fruits, vegetables, baked goods, crafts, flowers, prepared foods
Notes: All items locally grown or made, vendor-friendly
Williambsurg, VA
Name: Williamsburg Farmers Market
Location: 345 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA
Dates & Times: Saturdays, March–December, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Featured Products: Produce, meats, baked goods, honey, cheese, coffee, flowers
Notes: Live music, SNAP accepted, family-friendly events
To find more markets near you in Richmond and throughout Virginia, check out these directories:
