3 Fresh Farmer's Markets To Browse This Summer

The easiest way to get fresh produce in Brentwood is a quick trip to the Brentwood Produce Stand.

It's located at Franklin Rd. and Old Hickory Blvd.

But sometimes you want the whole lazy-Saturday-morning, Farmer's Market experience.

Don't forget that market basket!

Franklin Farmer's Market:

From Brentwood, take Franklin Rd. to the Factory at Franklin, just past Liberty Pike.  Open Saturdays from 8 to 1.

Mill around the local farmer's stands, sample Williamson Co.'s own Hatcher Family Dairy milk, and listen to the music of the Franklin Square Pickers. 

We haven't seen any kid activities this year, but you can tell this is a favorite Franklin family destination.  Herbs are available in a greenhouse out back.

The Nashville Farmer's Market

This is the big dog in the local produce scene, with its permanent open-air building and location at the foot of the TN State Capitol downtown.  It makes for great entertainment.

What I Love About The Nashville Farmer's Market:

• event calendar with chef demonstrations
• great buys on bedding plants and perennials
• ethnic restaurants and international spices
• proximity to the kid-friendly Bicentennial Mall fountains

Not So Much:

• Flea market vendors that sell a lot of tube socks
• Produce re-sellers that fake you into thinking they grew the food

East Nashville Farmer's Market is a young upstart behind the Turnip Truck at Woodland & 10th.  

Featuring a few big-name organic farms like Delvin Farms and Peaceful Pastures, East Nashville's biggest plus is its Wednesday night spot:  shop from 4 to 8 pm.

Bluegrass music courtesy of the Howling Brothers.

 My new favorite resource for shopping farmer's markets and produce stands is the publication Local Table.  Look for a free copy next time you go to market, or read the entire local magazine online here.

Do you have a favorite Farmer's Market near Brentwood?  Which one and why?