ACC April 2016 Farmers Market BlogIf the thought of a juicy, ripe tomato with down-home goodness makes your mouth water, journey to one of the many farmers markets along Alabama’s Coastal Connections Scenic Byways and slake your hunger.

 

Baldwin County has long been known for its vast array of fresh fruits and vegetables. In some places, these homegrown treats are celebrated with events such as the Loxley Strawberry Festival April 9 and 10 at the Loxley Community Park and the Honeybee Festival held each year in October in Robertsdale.

 

You don’t have to wait for festivals, however, to enjoy the sun-ripened goodness of our local produce. Baldwin County has a great selection of farmers markets offering the freshest selection possible. Running May 14 through July 9, the Fairhope Outdoor Farmers Market is open on Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. behind the Fairhope Public Library on Bancroft Street.  ACC April 2016 Farmers Market Blog 2

 

Year-round markets are just down the road. Travel U.S. Highway 98 West to Daphne from Fairhope, turning right on Baldwin County Road 64. Go about 2.7 miles and Allegri Market will be on the right. The store is a compact conglomeration of fresh fruits and vegetables, jams, jellies, meats and specialty items that will make you glad for the trip off the beaten path.

 

Next, travel about six miles down Baldwin County Road 64 to Burris Farm Market. This farmers market has a large selection of seasonal vegetables and fruit. In addition to its fresh produce offerings, you can wet your whistle at Burris with an ice-cold Coca-Cola in a glass bottle or a creamy milkshake. Burris also has a bakery and restaurant under the roof, and you can purchase potted plants and flowers in addition to groceries.

 

From Burris, turn right onto Alabama Highway 59 and go about a half mile to the Loxley Farm Market on the east side of the road. This open-air market has many fruits and vegetables grown by the owner’s family. Tomatoes, zucchini and corn-on-the-cob are just some of the fresh harvest you’ll find. Spicy boiled peanuts and fresh eggs are seasonal offerings also available.  ACC April 2016 Farmers Market Blog 3

 

Fresh vegetables and fruit offered with a smile and a “Thanks, y’all” will keep you coming back for more of this earthy goodness along Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byways.