You don’t have to be a local to shop local.
By Kelsey Thomas
You don’t have to be a local to shop local. Virginia Beach is home to many outdoor markets that make for a unique shopping experience while supporting local businesses. Whether you want to stock up on locally sourced ingredients or are in search of special gifts or art, you are bound to find everything you need and more at one of these four outdoor markets.
Old Beach Farmers Market • 620 19th Street
The Old Beach Farmers Market is a Virginia Beach staple that welcomes both locals and visitors. This fresh outdoor market is in the heart of the resort area, just one block from the Virginia Beach Convention Center and features seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, seafood, cheeses, baked goods, artisanal breads, handmade products and flowers. It is also a certified Virginia Green Market, which means that it encourages eco-friendly practices. Experience the Old Beach Farmers Market
from 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday until Oct. 26, on November 2 and 16 and on December 7 and 21. Learn more at OldBeachFarmersMarket.com
Old Beach Art & Eco Market • 1800 Cypress Avenue
Explore an array of products ranging from mixed media art pieces to trendy clothing, accessories and more at this eclectic outdoor market located in the ViBe Creative District. The Old Beach Art & Eco Market began in 2010 as two separate markets:
The Art Market which promoted local artists and The Green Market which promoted environmental awareness and eco-friendly practices through displays, programs and events. It now serves as a large market that serves both local arts and green businesses and non-profits. This market is open from 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday from May to October and every third Saturday with the same hours from November to May. Learn more at OldBeachArtMarket.com
Shore Drive Farm Market • 2961 Shore Drive
Open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon all year round, the Shore Drive Farm Market is made up of a variety of vendors with local finds from meats, produce and eggs to jewelry, art, gifts and so much more. The outdoor market is run by Lynnhaven Coffee Company and welcomes Virginia Beach natives and visitors alike. It’s easy to find, as you can’t miss the parking lot party that is full of tents and shoppers. Learn more at Facebook.com/ShoreDriveFarmMarket
Virginia Beach Farmers Market • 3640 Dam Neck Road
Open daily year-round, with the possible exception of holidays, the Virginia Beach Farmers Market offers fresh and local produce with over 14 merchants. Consumers can shop everything from garden plants, produce and meats to home décor, artisan products and more. They even host “Hoedowns,” their popular concert series that take place every Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. between April and November. Learn more at Facebook.com/VBFarmersMarket
