Old Town Farmers' Market — Attraction in Alexandria

Situated at 301 King Street, right in front of City Hall, the Old Town Alexandria Farmers' Market is a historic gem and a Saturday morning staple for those who live nearby. Open every Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to Noon, rain, shine, or snow, this is not just a farmers market; this is THE farmers market!

Holding the title of the oldest farmers' market in the country held continuously at the same site, it offers a unique blend of history and community spirit. You can stroll through the same market that George Washington sold his produce from Mount Vernon and immerse yourself in a tradition that dates back centuries. From the moment you arrive, the market's lively atmosphere draws you in. With over 70 vendors during peak season, there's a dazzling array of offerings including fresh fruits and vegetables, hot prepared foods, cheeses, specialty sauces, freshly baked breads, pastries and much more.

Some of my favorite and regular places that I visit at the market are Coulter farms (which provides high-quality dairy goods, beef, granolas and more from an Amish farm), Baked by Yael (which offers delectable bagels and treats that are perfect for a quick snack as you browse) and Hog Haven Farm which is a crowd favorite (their breakfast sandwiches are so good, there's often a line, but it moves quickly and is worth every minute of the wait).

Also I can't forget about MB Bakery On The Go, located along the back side of the fountain, it has a lot of real estate showcasing their variety of baked goods and famous homemade pop-tarts. Chocotenango Chocolate is also great (chocolates handcrafted from bean to bar). Bigg Riggs Gourmet Farm brings some of the freshest fruits and vegetables, and Farm Kettle Corn is perfect for a sweet and / or savory, crunchy treat.

If you're looking for something for the home head to Lily Shoppe which sells natural soap bars that are aromatic and sweet, you can browse them while snacking on an Maracas Ice Pop (all-natural fruit popsicles) from the corner. They are a refreshing and delicious way to help keep you cool on these hot DMV Saturdays. There are too many great places to list here but it's a overall a great opportunity to support local businesses all at once!

Live musical performances also add to the festive ambiance, making the market experience even more enjoyable (these performances seem to rotate every week). With many public bike racks close to Market Square, it’s bike-friendly too—just remember to bring your own lock as bikes (as well as pets) aren't permitted on Market Square during market hours.

The Old Town Alexandria Farmers' Market is more than a place to shop; it’s a place to connect with locals and local businesses, experience history, and enjoy the best local produce and artisanal goods the area has to offer. It’s an essential Saturday destination that promises a delightful experience for everyone. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this market is a must-visit if...

Ok so I have always given honest and positive reviews .... today I cannot do that. My SO and I spent our weekend in my hometown of Alexandria VA. I was born here 50 years ago, attended my grade school years at a private school here and loved my life !! Always proud of where I came from. Still am, in spite of the insanity and cruelty I was forced to endure while wandering through my favorite farmers market which I’ve attended many times throughout my life. This message is for the Mask police who feel they have the right to follow you into a farmers market and as they pass by you threaten you that there is a governors mandate that a mask be worn ....first of all to you two woman who should remember that insanity and cruelty coupled with impatience and rudeness are far more threatening than a virus. I suffer from a heart condition which restricts my breathing and wearing a mask is not only difficult for me but I am one of those people within the governor’s mandate which would fall under a medical provision for not having to wear one! That is per my doctor who tells me that every breath I take is necessary for my overall well being and I can faint if I restrict my breathing. In spite of this I do wear a mask mostly because it requires entirely too much energy to TRY and explain to the head cases of the world my reasons why I am NOT wearing one. So I wear my mask over my mouth but leave it very loose over my nose and I let it come down when I start to feel lightheaded. The LAST thing I need while enjoying a beautiful fall morning with my family is to be accosted by some CRAZY woman who feel compelled to approach me to threaten me. Then when I attempt to WHILE standing 5-6 feet away from these freaks calmly and with kindness I may add try to explain my reason for having my nose partially exposed they then say “DONT talk to me...!!!!!!! Get away from me!!!” As they run from you... lol common lady. If I were you I would be more concerned with your mental health issues than my nose. I will not be returning to this market until the craziness has calmed. But to all of you who somehow feel entitled to meddle in other people’s private affairs ... DONT! You do not know what their reasons are and if you feel it so necessary to act as the local MASK police, perhaps it may be advantageous to ASK if there is a reason before you assume they are simply acting rebelliously One day these morons are going to approach the wrong person ..... lucky for them that...

Worst experience! Went Christmas Eve -when everything outside was frozen solid. Probably shouldn't have expected anyone to be there, however they were. Many of the recommended places weren't however. Specifically COFFEE and Salmon were on my priority list. Coffee to get warm and fish for my last minute gifts. Fortunately, I was able to snag some popcorn bags and some packaged sausage. The Market staff were not at all informative and seemed to be more of a hinder than help. One of the men(I assume worked for the market)- was even badgering a person with a handicap for trying to plug in their scooter! After asking several questions regarding details about this market,it was clear that none of the market personell wanted to help or even knew anything. The physical condition of the market was a mess,with icy sidewalks and stairs. There was a large unfinished skate park? in the middle of the market- with tape around it. A gazebo with tape around it and mud everywhere. Overall,the rating reflects the experience, unfriendly and uninformed staff,four vendors who WEREN'T there,safety concerns and appearance of the Old...