The Hudson Valley and its Farmers Markets
Source: Photo by Anne Preble https://unsplash.com/photos/SAPvKo12dQE
One of the best places to find fresh produce, sip some warm apple cider and feel warm under the sun’s rays during fall are the Hudson Valley’s farmers markets. Before winter arrives in the coming months, farmers markets are a popular activity for all ages during the fall foliage.
On our very own cozy campus, the Ethical Fashion Club runs a lively farmers market paired with the opportunity for students to thrift clothes. As one munches on a fresh red apple, they can find a new outfit to add to their closet. However, beyond the Marist bubble are other local markets.
The Hudson Valley Regional farmers Market
South Brewster
This is one of the most popular farmers markets in this area. They are open every Sunday from 10am- 2pm and is held at 15 Mount Ebo Road South Brewster, New York. Currently they host around 11 vendors that provide products from maple syrup to fresh produce and homemade cheese.
A special quality of this farmers market is that all profits go to the Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association, who also puts together this market. Their goal is to be able to advocate for those who have cerebral palsy and help families achieve the opportunity to maintain good health.
Hudson
This local farm has a permanent farmers market open annually. The family operated farm since 1929 is presently owned by Stephen and Melissa Meisner, the third generational owners.
The farm provides seasonal produce like strawberries in the summer and pumpkins in the fall. They also showcase little products like flowers and goat soap you can browse through when you visit their farm market located at the forefront of the farm’s property.
Since this farmers market is located at the family farm, you can also walk around and take a little tour of the land. You can stop and see the pigs and chickens as well as see the vast fields of crops. The farm scenery compliments the fresh produce provided.
Beacon
They are open every Sunday of the year from 10AM to 3PM. The market is currently run by Manager Lisa Urrico, who is also a musician and arts administrator.
This farmers market offers similar produce to Meisner’s Heritage Farm and The Hudson Valley regional farmers Market, but they use the products of Common Ground Farm. This farm is located in Wappingers Falls, Beacon and runs three different branches in Newburgh.
Now these aren't the only options you have if you want to take an adventure and explore the beautiful area that surrounds us. Some other gems include…
New Paltz
This is a permanent farmers market that is open everyday from 9AM to 6:30PM. This is a very seasonal market that has pumpkin picking, Christmas tree shopping and apple picking with delicious apple cider doughnuts and pie.
Hudson
Green Acres Farm does not technically include a farmers market, but the whole farm is open to individuals to explore and take home seasonal crops. They provide everything from fresh blueberries and strawberries to pumpkins and hayrides for your enjoyment. It's a cozy little farm that has been family operated since 1915.
All of these large or small-scale farms and markets each offer a different but magical taste of the Hudson Valley. One may feel encapsulated by the surrounding nature or feel full after eating a bucketful of strawberries. Local farmers markets enable small farmers to show their crops and allow the community to support their small businesses at vendor events.
The next time you feel you need to leave campus and fill your fridge, check out one of these farms! You may feel overwhelmed by the abundance of fruits, vegetables, farm animals and even soap made from a trusty goat.