They say you are what you eat, so if you’re looking to feel more fresh and alive, consider switching from big-box chains to your local farmers market.
Not only do you “get to meet the people who are producing your food,” as Joe Serra of the Piermont Farmers Market stated, but you get to support them and your local economy too.
Rockland and Bergen have plenty of farm-to-your-table options both seasonally and year-round. Plan your next grocery run, check out a fun food truck, or discover some new music at one of these local markets!
PerezFarm Stand in Haverstraw
When: Sundays, 9am – 1pm
Where: 40 New Main St. | Haverstraw Village Hall
What’s cool: This market is unique in that, for over 15 years, it has featured only one vendor — Perez Farm Stand. Estela Perez runs the Haverstraw market, sometimes along with her sister and daughter. The Perez family sells crops from their own 17-acre farm in Goshen, and they accept Fresh Connect Checks, making their food more accessible.
Why go: In addition to classic farm-stand staples (including their famous crisp corn), Estela occasionally brings their own honey, which always sells out. She doesn’t announce it ahead of time, though, so you’ll just have to keep going back!
Learn more: >voh-ny.com/faq
River Vale Farmers Market
When: Thursdays, 1pm – 6pm
Where: 406 Rivervale Rd. | River Vale
What’s cool: “We have weekly entertainment from amazing local singers, the high school chorus, and bands, as well as balloons and face painting for the little ones. We run raffles and crafts and provide information about all other town-wide events. It’s truly a community function,” shares Rachel Galatt, director of cultural and social affairs for the township of River Vale.
Why go: This market aims to feature only the best vendors. Empanada Lady, Clyde’s Homemade Ice Cream, and Picklelicious are all well-known makers. But this year, they are excited to announce the addition of Cousin’s Maine Lobster, which has already been a huge draw. “People come from all over to grab a piece of Maine!”
Learn more: >rivervalenj.org/219/Farmers-Market
Nyack Farmers Market
When: Thursdays, 8am – 2pm
Where: Artopee Way | Nyack
What’s cool: This market is a long-standing local tradition, bringing fresh produce and handmade food to the public for 28 years. Smack-dab in the center of town, folks can listen to live music while the kiddos enjoy storytime and crafting.
Why go: Just ask Market Manager Bill Batson! “Nyack is the best thing about the Nyack Farmers Market. After you visit several of our two-dozen vendors, enjoy the restaurants, unique shops, and local attractions, including the Edward Hopper House Museum and Study Center.” The village has generously provided free parking in the municipal lot during market hours, making it even easier to explore.
Learn more: >nyackchamber.org/nyack-farmers-market
Piermont Farmers Market
When: Sundays, 10am – 3pm
Where: 25 Flywheel Park | Piermont
What’s cool: Piermont’s own Outside In Gallery & Espresso Bar took over this local staple back in 2019. It boasts an extensive roster of rotating sellers, so you can check their Facebook to see who will be there that week or just stop by and be surprised! This helps to keep their offerings fresh, yet familiar.
Why go: This popular market is centrally located in a beautiful park in historic Piermont, right on the Hudson River, and attracts wonderful vendors and customers alike.
Learn more: >facebook.com/piermontfm
