The next time you need a break, consider adding plenty of sand, sun, water, and fun. Enjoy a beach retreat on the Florida Gulf Coast, where you’ll have something for everyone for a relaxing vacation any time of year. Point your compass toward Bradenton, Sarasota, and the surrounding area, where there are plenty of things to do and see to make it a trip to remember. You’ll need and want to do some shopping while you’re here, so make a stop at some of their unique farmers and craft Florida markets a must-do on your list.
While many of these markets are in the Bradenton or Sarasota area, there may be some that are a little further out of the way. These include markets on the barrier islands such as Siesta Key, as well as towns further afield, including Newtown. You can get to Siesta Key by vehicle. These locales are 20-30 minutes from Bradenton/Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmers Market
The year-round market is considered “an opportunity for community” and offers not only fresh produce, baked goods, arts, crafts, and more, but also an opportunity for residents and guest to gather and experience downtown Sarasota.
Come experience the community every Saturday, rain or shine! Hours are 7 a.m. – 1p.m. They’re located in the heart of downtown Sarasota. It’s centered at the intersection of Main Street & Lemon Avenue, extending to First Street on the North End and Pineapple Avenue on the South End. You’ll also find vendors on State Street.
Check out their vendor list on the market’s website.
Newtown Farmers Market
They year-round market is a must for your vacation farmers’ market schedule. It is an affiliate of The Newtown Nation, an organization established to promote, support, and provide healthy locally-sourced produce. Shop fresh local produce, baked good, and more from local vendors, farmers, and creators.
The open-air market is open Tuesday-Friday 12-6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The market is located at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, 2523 Cocoanut Ave in Sarasota.
UTC Night Market
The monthly event is an outdoor market featuring live music, local makers, artisans, and farmers offering their wares. Choose from delicious produce, baked goods, handmade goods, jewelry, art, gifts, and more.
The event is located at The Green in the West District at University Town Center in Sarasota. The market is open every third Thursday (May 16 & June 24, 2024) 5-9 p.m.
Lakewood Ranch
The year-round market is a favorite weekly tradition for many residents and visitors in the area. Visit to find fresh produce, prepared foods, specialty items, gifts, flowers, pet products, and more.
While you’re there, enjoy a free yoga class, or let the kids enjoy a workshop. The market is every Sunday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. It’s located at Waterside Place, 1561 Lakefront Drive in Lakewood Ranch.
Siesta Key Farmer’s Market
Take a day trip from the mainland to the cozy barrier islands of the keys. Visit Siesta Key for a different kind of beach experience, as well as plenty of farmers’ market fun.
The year-round market offers plenty of fresh produce, homemade soap, artisan crafts, baked goods, and more. The market operates year-round, every Sunday 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. It’s located in Siesta Key Village at 5104 Ocean Blvd.
Geraldson’s Family Farm
The family farm is tucked onto eleven acres in northwest Bradenton. The farm grows fruit and vegetables, including over 15 varieties of tomatoes! You’ll also find cantaloupe, yellow squash, okra, lettuce, cauliflower, and more, depending on the time of year you visit. They work with other local farms to offer citrus, honey, eggs, cheese, juice, a variety of berries and more.
Visit them at 9812 9th Avenue NW in Bradenton. Hours are Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. 3 p.m. Cash or check only – NO credit or debit cards accepted.
Your Home Base for Shopping Bradenton & Sarasota’s Farmers’ and Craft Markets
The ultimate way to enjoy all your farmers market and craft market shopping during your trip to the Bradenton and Sarasota area is with a vacation rental provided by Anchor Down Vacation Rentals. We have homes from one-bedroom units for a solo or sweetheart getaway full of farmers’ market fun, all the way up to eight-bedroom single-family homes to enjoy a farmers market shopping adventure and beach getaway with all your loved ones. Savor the flavors of home with the fresh fruits and veggies you picked up when you prepare a home-cooked meal in the unit’s fully-equipped kitchen.
Enjoy spacious living areas and private outdoor spaces like patios or balconies. Unwind after a long day in a private bedroom, or gather some snacks and enjoy your favorite movies together on a flat screen TV with entertainment center. Our premium units include upgrades like stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat screen TVs and more!
Contact us today!