Farmers markets are a fun way to not only get fresh produce but also to find and try new foods. The whole family can get in on the action when you visit a farmers market. The local farmers and producers offer everything from fruits and vegetables to meat, eggs, and baked goods, and it’s the perfect place to go for a family adventure. 

In and around the Plano area, there are several farmers markets to check out. Each one has an impressive list of vendors and offers something different each week. We at Crème de la Crème of Plano have put together a list of some of our favorites. Check them out and see what you think.

Georgia’s Farmers Market, Downtown Plano

Georgia’s Farmers Market on E. 15th Street in Plano runs on the weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This market specializes not only in locally grown produce, but also in homemade jams, salsa, and baked goods. The small market packs in a lot of items from local farms and small independent producers, and is the best place in and around Plano to get unique items such as pickled quail eggs, a wide variety of homemade sauces, and relishes.

Take your time going through Georgia’s and don’t miss the spicy pumpkin seeds and the sunflower seeds. You can also find delicious stuffed jalapenos, wonderful peach pie pockets, and fresh tamales. 

Frisco Fresh Market

Make sure to check out Frisco Fresh Market. This outdoor market sits in downtown Frisco, offering over 16,000 square feet of space and more than 90 different vendors. Stop by to shop for almost anything. Along with the expected fresh produce, you can also get specialty foods, freshly baked bread, meat, gourmet coffee, cheese, olive oils, and pasta sauces. This pet-friendly market allows dogs on a leash, and you can even shop for your four-legged family member while you are there. 

Bring the whole family to Frisco Fresh Market so you can all spend some time exploring the many vendors. You can munch on some prepared treats as you shop, with options such as savory empanadas or sweet pastries. Frisco Fresh Market also hosts family-friendly events. The popular Carnival Treats event in the fall features amazing fair food. You can get all your favorites such as funnel cake, fresh lemonade, and corn dogs. 

Frisco Fresh stays open all year-round from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and it’s open again from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

McKinney Farmers Market

Image via Flickr by jdtornow Licensed CC BY 2.0

You’ll find the McKinney Farmers Market in the old Jockey Lot of Chestnut Square. Stop by to shop for local meats, veggies, honey, and produce along with delicious baked goods and wine. This is a great place to go when you want to pick up a new plant for the house or find specialty foods such as homemade jerky or tamales.

The McKinney Farmers Market also has several arts and crafts vendors selling their handcrafted items. You can find everything from a unique walking stick that is both functional and beautiful to handmade jewelry, candles, and soap. A trip to this market is also more than just a shopping day; every weekend is also filled with music, and there are fun activities for the kids, including face painting and pony rides. 

Red Tent Markets

Red Tent Markets has two locations in Plano. You can head to either the Shops at Willow Bend from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays or to Granite Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The Shops at Willow Bend has vendors selling fresh-baked breads, pasta, honey, and seasonal vegetables. The Granite Park location is the smaller of the two with just 15 vendors, but its location is easy to get to, and it sits under the shade of the pavilion. 

Grapevine Farmers Market

If you or the kids have special dietary needs, then the Grapevine Farmers Market is a must. Vendors at this market offer lots of options for vegan diets along with gluten-free items and more. You can also head here for local honey, fresh-baked breads and pastries, and grass-fed beef. The market stays open all year round with many seasonal items to make it interesting and new each time you go. 

There are all kinds of treats to enjoy at this market. Stop by the Crave Popcorn Company booth for gourmet popcorn in unique flavors such as French onion, pumpkin spice, or candy corn crunch. You can also get sweets from Stir Crazy baked goods and Reverie Bakeshop, and delicious fried pies from Mom’s Fried Pies. This market has local farm fresh eggs, olive oil from the Texas Hill Country Olive Company, and local pure beeswax candles. 

Grapevine Farmers Market stays open year-round from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Denton Community Market

Head to downtown Denton and find your local produce at the Denton Community Market. This family-friendly market features produce from local growers, live music, food trucks, and local food vendors, along with fun activities for the kids. You’ll find this market on West Mulberry Street in Denton. Visit on Saturdays between April and November from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The local vendors at Denton Community Market include Bushy Creek Farm, Circle N Family Dairy for fresh milk, and iRelish, a local beekeeper who makes pure, natural raw honey. iRelish is also known for their zucchini relish made with the honey, which they also use to make jams. For some of the best pickles in Denton and beyond, stop by Frankie’s Fresh Foods. They make pickles from their own farm-raised produce and pickle them immediately after harvest.

At Crème de la Crème of Plano, we know how important it is that everyone in your family gets fresh fruits and veggies. These local farmers markets have everything you need and lots of extra treats that you may not necessarily need, but you’ll definitely want!