Farmers Market

The Salem Farmers Market is located in the heart of Salem’s downtown district on the corner of Main and Broad Streets. Thanks to the rich bottomland soils of the Roanoke River and the fertile surrounding areas, local farmers have always been able to provide some of the area’s finest produce for their customers.

In an effort to provide a more convenient location for local farmers to sell their products, the City of Salem constructed the Salem market structure in 1992. Since then the facility and its vendors have proven to be a valuable asset to the downtown economy. Special events are held throughout the season, promoting the market, its vendors, and the downtown in general. Fresh produce, home-baked goodies, fresh cut flowers, honey, eggs, beef, and cheese are just a few of the things that we offer shoppers on a regular basis.

The Salem Farmers Market is a proud member of the Virginia Farmers Market Association.

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FAQs

What's in Season?

Chart showing produce availability at the farmers market.

What are the operating hours of the SFM?

The Market is open on Saturdays 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (April - December); 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (January - March)

NOTE: All of our merchants are small, locally-owned businesses. Generally speaking someone has to plant on the farm, milk cows at the dairy, bake the deliciousness, and more. Some, like berry farmers, have specific, small seasons and when it's up they no longer have product to sell. All are local entrepreneurs running their own businesses; many doing it all by themselves. Add in the desire and need for days of rest and it's simply not feasible for most merchants to be at Market seven days, week every week.

What types of products can be sold at SFM?

Only locally produced products are permitted to be sold on the market (within 100 mile radius of the City of Salem). The main function of the SFM is to sell homegrown produce, which will take priority over baked goods and crafts. A focus on locally grown and produced items is strongly encouraged for all vendors. Items permitted include food items, baked goods, canned goods, meats, and non-food items that meet the locally produced, agricultural-based criteria, such as live plants, handmade soaps, wooden items, etc.

How do I become a vendor at the SFM?

Anyone interested in selling at the SFM must contact the market manager before setting up at the market. There is an application and approval process.

The SFM is open to all eligible vendors regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status.

Why do your vendors often move around on the market?

In an effort to keep our market full and interesting our market manager moves vendors based upon who will be attending the market, what is being sold in the neighboring stalls, and how long the vendor has been part of SFM. While this is challenging, if you are looking for someone specific, stop by the RED Umbrella and ask. We are happy to help you find what you are looking for!

What is the EBT / SNAP program?

SNAP is a federal program that replaced food stamps several years ago. Now participants of this program receive a card, much like a debit card, that can be accepted at many food retailers across the country. The SFM is proud to be a leader in the acceptance of EBT cards at farmers markets. Simply bring your EBT card to the Market Manager stall on Saturdays. You will receive wooden tokens that are accepted like cash by vendors of the SFM. Some federal restrictions apply. For more information about receiving food assistance, contact the Department of Social Services in your area.

Does the Salem Farmers Market accept credit and debit cards?

Yes! Visit the Market Manager stall to use your credit or debit card in $5 increments. You will receive wooden tokens that are accepted like cash by all vendors of the market. These tokens, or Market Bucks, make great gifts and are very similar to a gift certificate!

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