4 minute read
Farmers Markets
Written By: Carla Bellot
Barbadians are becoming aware of where their food comes from and choosing to support local, buying directly from farmers and markets is the obvious solution – it’s affordable, sustainable, and will reduce our island’s food import bill.
Foodie has compiled a list of the most popular and accessible Farmers Markets in Barbados. Saturday mornings are traditionally best for shopping, but most markets are also open during the week. These markets carry a wide range of fresh produce, herbs, spices, eggs and interesting items like juices, jams, seasonings, and seedlings. Ask the vendors for cooking or gardening tips – they’re usually happy to share.Of course, don’t forget to bring your reusable shopping bags!
Cheapside Market
(Mon to Sat 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. Best on Saturday)
Being the largest public market in Barbados, this can be found next to the General Post Office in Cheapside, Bridgetown. While the market generally runs all day, the early bird truly catches the worm in terms of getting the best produce and deals.
Barven Outdoor Market
(Fri-Sat, 5:30 am-5:00 pm)
Opened in May 2020 along the Mighty Grynner Highway, this outdoor marketplace is run by the Barbados Association of Retailers, Vendors and Entrepreneurs. The colourful kiosks are easy to spot and you’ll find fresh produce, herbs, breads, pastries and even homemade ice cream! For those with a green thumb, seedlings are also available at affordable prices.
Brighton Farmers Market
(Saturdays, 6:30 am – 10:00 am)
Held at Brighton Plantation in St. George, this market doubles as a source of fresh produce and a great breakfast spot to meet with family and friends, as seating is available. Breakfast items are available on sale, plus there are many stalls that offer other delicious options ranging from sausages to donuts, and everything in between. Takeaway options are available. You can also purchase gourmet foods, handicrafts, jewellery and artisanal products.
Holders Farmers Market
(Sundays, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm)
This market is the perfect Sunday morning outing held on the grounds of Holders House in St. James. Besides fresh seasonal produce, this market also offers stalls with baked goods, crafts, antiques, and many other interesting finds.
Hastings Farmers Market
(Wed, Sat, and Sun 8:00 am – 2:00 pm)
Hastings Farmers Market is held at the Art Splash complex, across from the Hastings Rocks Esplanade. You’ll find seasonal produce, homemade jams, jellies, hot sauces, baked goods, and even hummus as well as handmade jewellery and artwork for sale.
…or roadside!
There are many vendors, also known as ‘hawkers’ that sell their produce along the highways and byways of Barbados! Be on the lookout for these stalls, especially close to roundabouts, junctions, bus terminals, or along the streets in commercial areas. They can be found every day of the week. Other notable mentions are:
• Codrington College Farmers Market – Codrington College, Sargeant Street, St. John (call for more info Tel: 416-8054)
• Eagle Hall Public Market – Eagle Hall, St. Michael; Tel: 535-6231
• Fairchild Street Public Market – Fairchild Street, St. Michael Tel: 535-6232 or 5356233
• Glebe Public Market – The Glebe, St. George; Tel: 535-6234
• Marhill Street Market – Marhill Street, Bridgetown, St. Michael; Tel: 535-6235
• Palmetto Mall and Market – High Street, Bridgetown, St. Michael; Tel: 535-6237
• PEG Farm – Easy Hall Plantation, St. Joseph; Tel: 433-9806
• Redland Estates – Redland Plantation, St. George; Tel: 433-5541
• Six Roads Public Market – Six Roads, St. Philip Tel: 535-6239 or 535-6240
If you have a favourite market that wasn’t mentioned, please share it on our social networks!