Sarasota Farmers Markets

• Siesta Key Crystal Classic Market: occasional specialty events at Siesta Key Village.
• Bradenton Farmers Market: LECOM Park area, operating weekly during the cooler months.
• Anna Maria Island Farmers Market: small intimate market held on Anna Maria, check local listings for current schedule.
• Holiday markets: the Sarasota downtown market and several community markets expand with holiday vendors November through December.

• Locally grown produce: Sarasota and Manatee counties support active farming operations — look for winter tomatoes, citrus, herbs, and greens from October through April.
• Fresh seafood: local fishermen sometimes sell directly at markets, especially at Cortez Village and coastal locations.
• Tropical fruit: Florida specialties including avocados, longans, jackfruit, and mamey sapote are often available from local growers.
• Artisan honey, hot sauce, and jams: Florida flavors produced by small local operations.
• Prepared foods: most markets feature ready-to-eat options from local restaurants, bakers, and food vendors.

• Arrive early for the best selection — especially at the Sarasota Farmers Market where popular vendors sell out.
• Bring cash and reusable bags — many vendors prefer cash, and markets increasingly discourage single-use plastic.
• Dog-friendly: most outdoor markets welcome leashed dogs. The Sarasota Saturday market is popular with well-behaved dogs.
• Parking: arrive before 9 AM at the Saturday market for close parking. The garage on Lemon Avenue fills by 10 AM.
• Summer slowdown: some vendors take summer breaks. Markets continue but with fewer participants from July through September.

Several area farms offer CSA (community-supported agriculture) boxes delivered weekly to pickup points around Sarasota and Manatee counties. These programs offer the freshest seasonal produce and direct farmer relationships at prices comparable to the market.

Farm stands appear throughout the eastern parts of both counties along rural roads. Worden Farm in Punta Gorda, Five Star Mushrooms in Sarasota, and Hunsader Farms in Bradenton are well-known local sources worth visiting.