Local Massachusetts Farmers Markets

Written By: Rebecca Riley, RD

Massachusetts is home to several local farmers markets, offering fresh, locally grown produce on various days/times throughout the week. The best resource for finding a farmers market in Massachusetts is the Massachusetts government website, which features an interactive map. Visit Massachusetts Farmers Market Locater to search location, date and location type as well as to see if they accept specific nutrition programs. 

Nutrition Programs at Farmers Markets:

There are several different nutrition programs that support lower-income individuals and families in accessing fresh produce from local farmers markets as they are often more expensive than at the grocery store.  Here are some common programs: 

• WIC (Women Infants and Children) Farmers Market Coupons: Offered to eligible families receiving WIC benefits, these coupons are distributed once a summer and can be used at participating farmers markets to buy eligible foods.
• Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program: This program provides similar benefits to older adults, enabling them access to fresh, local produce from farmers markets.
• Healthy Incentives Program (HIP): Any household that receives SNAP benefits is eligible for HIP. This program allows you to purchase produce from a local farmers market with your EBT card and money goes back onto your card (there is a monthly cap depending on your family size). To learn more visit.

Finding a Farmers Market:

For farmer markets across the US, you can use this link to find options. Or visit your state’s local website to find out more.

List of Farmers’ Markets Near our Norwood Office (This is Not an Exhaustive List)

Norwood Farmers Market
Nahatan and Washington Streets-Town Common, Norwood
Dates & Times: June 18 to October 15; Tuesday, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
WIC & Senior Coupons Accepted; EBT-SNAP Accepted.

Walpole Farmers Market
East Street, Downtown, Walpole (Spring Brook Park)
Dates & Time: June 8 to October 19; Saturday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Canton Farmers Market
Rodman Building/Canton High School, 960 Washington Street, Canton
Date and Time: June 16 to October 20; Sunday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
WIC & Senior Coupons Accepted; EBT-SNAP Accepted.

Medfield Farmers Market
26 North Street, Medfield (Montrose School)
Dates & Times: May 19 to October; Sunday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
WIC & Senior Coupons Accepted.

Dedham Farmers Market
670 High Street, Dedham
Dates & Time: June 12 to October 30; Wednesday, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
WIC & Senior Coupons Accepted; EBT-SNAP Accepted.

Tips for Shopping at Farmers’ Markets

• Bring reusable bags. Farmers markets don’t typically provide plastic bags and this helps reduce waste.
• Arrive early to ensure you get the best selection. 
• Bring cash, not all vendors accept credit or debit cards.
• Plan ahead; if you’re looking for something specific you can check the market’s schedule or website in advance to see which vendors will be there.
• Walk around first before making any purchases. This will allow you to see all your options and compare prices.

Benefits of Shopping at Local Farmers’ Markets

• Community building
• Connection to our food source
• Environmental impact
• Freshness and quality
• Promoting sustainability
• Seasonal variety
• Supporting the local economy

Next time you’re planning your grocery shopping, consider stopping at a local farmers market. Not only will you enjoy fresh, high-quality produce, you’ll also be supporting local farmers. Reach out to our dietitians for support with meal planning using your local farmers market produce. Click this link to schedule a free intake call today. 

References:

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-healthy-incentives-program-hip-frequently-asked-questions

https://www.fns.usda.gov/fmnp/wic-farmers-market-nutrition-program

https://massnrc.org/farmlocator/map.aspx?Type=Farmers+Markets

https://www.usdalocalfoodportal.com/