The days of supermarkets supplying all our household needs have gone. Today, more American families than ever are ditching the grocery store for the fun of their local farmers’ markets. Demand has seen the number of markets operating across the country soar. In 1999, there were just 3000 farmers’ markets in the United States. By 2019, there were more than 8,800 supplying farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, eggs, and more. 

Fans say farmers market produce tastes better, lasts longer, and supports their local communities. What’s not to love? Discover the appeal for yourself at these farmers’ markets around Woodbridge and Prince William County.

Dale City Farmers’ Market

Image via Flickr by brittreints

Farmers’ markets seem like a fairly recent trend, but Dale City Farmers Market was ahead of the curve. The friendly year-round market has served the local community since 1987. There are more than 20 vendors in the colder months. However, numbers more than double to nearly 50 stalls during warm summer weather. They sell the freshest fruit and vegetables, meats, plants, and artisan goods. Unlike some local markets, Dale City Farmers Market is a proudly producer-only market. That means all vendors grow or make everything they sell.

Prince William County Department of Parks & Recreation oversees Dale City Farmers Market. It’s held at the Prince William County Pfitzner Stadium Complex, just 6.5 miles west of Woodbridge. Visit every Sunday between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Occoquan Farmers Market

Occoquan Farmers Market is another producer-only market close to home. This small but charming market is in Occoquan, just over 2 miles northwest of Woodbridge. It features a variety of quality stalls selling fresh produce, tempting baked goods, and specialty items.

Its annual season runs from April to October. Find it in the Mill Street Parking Lot on Saturdays between 8 a.m. and noon.

Tackett’s Mill Farmers Market

Tackett’s Mill Farmers Market attracts vendors from throughout Northern Virginia. This warm-season farmers market is also relatively small. However, you’ll find all the essentials here, such as fruits and vegetables, meat, bread, and delicious pastries.

Tackett’s Mill Farmers Market operates from the Harbor Drive Commuter Lot in Lake Ridge, just under 4 miles northwest of Woodbridge. Visit between 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Its season runs from mid-May to late October.

Manassas Farmers Market

Manassas Farmers Market is about 17 miles northwest of Woodbridge, but it’s worth the drive. Prince William Living magazine declared this year-round market one of the area’s best. Regular vendors include Chateau MerrillAnne Vineyard, Great Harvest Bread Co., Gonzales Produce, and Erin’s Elderberries. Coffee from Grounds Central Station and meals from Argentine Empanadas, Carranza Ceviche, and La Felicidad provide a real energy burst. In addition to food stalls, the market has artisan vendors selling candles, body lotions, and Peruvian jewelry.

The Manassas Farmers Market runs each Saturday at the Prince William Commuter Lot, across from Baldwin Elementary School. From early May to mid-November, an additional farmers market runs at Harris Pavilion on Thursdays to meet demand. This market has fewer vendors, but it’s a great option for people wanting fresh food throughout the week. Both markets run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Haymarket Farmers Market

It might be small, but don’t underestimate the quality products sold at Haymarket Farmers Market. Vendors focus on delivering exceptional produce and artisan goods to the public. Try the organic meats from Rainbow Acres Farm, authentic European pastries from French Gourmandises, and handcrafted sweet treats from Baughn’s Homemade Chocolates. Vendors also sell locally grown fruits and vegetables, flavored butter and jams, flowers, and herbs.

Haymarket Farmers Market’s season runs from April to October. You’ll find it between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturdays at the Town Hall Building parking lot in nearby Haymarket.

Quantico Farmers Market

Quantico Farmers Market opened in 2013, as part of the Operation Live Well Healthy Base Initiative. This program aimed to help military personnel and their families eat better. However, civilians can also shop for the tempting treats available on Russell Road in Quantico, located just 15 miles southwest of Woodbridge. Vendors, including Chef Nancy’s Bakery and Papa Weaver’s Pork, proudly sell their wares. You’ll also find freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, free-range eggs, herbs, and much more.

Quantico Farmers Market runs every Thursday between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. all year round. You’ll find it in the Marine Corps Exchange parking lot, opposite the McDonalds.

Nokesville Farmers Market

Enjoy a leisurely drive to Nokesville Farmers Market, about 23 miles west of Woodbridge. It features a diverse range of stalls, with friendly vendors keen to showcase their wares. Alongside the market staples of fresh fruit, vegetables, and meats, there are cheeses, honey, and homemade preserves. Browse the local arts and crafts stalls for unique gifts and decorating ideas.

Nokesville Farmers Market trades from May to September or October, depending on the weather. Find it on the corner of Fitzwater Drive and Route 28 in Nokesville each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Gainesville Farmers Market

Located about 30 miles northwest of Woodbridge, Gainesville Farmers Market is the furthest from Woodbridge on this list. However, this quality farmers market is appealing enough to encourage weekend drives. Grab a brew from Haymarket Coffee Company, then browse through the delicious produce from Little Green Farm, Ward’s Family Farm, and Tyson Farm and Orchard. Authentic Greek oils and vinegar from Taste of the Old Country and Filipino street food from Lola’s Kusina complement the produce. Three Puppies Treats even sells GMO-free dog snacks, so there’s really something here for the whole family.

Community Foodworks runs Gainesville Farmers Market from early April to late November. Visit on Sundays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. between Gainesville United Methodist Church and Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

These farmers markets are our favorites in Prince William County, but the Crème de la Crème of Port Potomac team would love to hear if we’ve missed any that you love. Contact us to share the local farmers’ markets you love or discuss your child’s care and development. As a proud part of the Woodbridge community, we’re always here to help you.