Spring Markets BY ALLYSON JONES
The Farm-to-Table and Shop Local movements are much more than passing fads in the Lowcountry. The region’s long agricultural history is being rediscovered and the once isolated, self-sufficient sea island of Hilton Head, as well as the surrounding area, is returning to its roots. Over the past few years, a variety of markets have popped up offering farm-fresh produce, pasture-raised meats, eggs, seafood, honey, prepared foods, artisan breads and cheeses, baked goods, wellness and beauty products, all-natural cleaning supplies, clothing, accessories, beverages, handcrafted merchandise and live entertainment in an effort to support local farmers, small businesses and artists. Before making your list, packing up your reusable bags and heading out the door to shop, dine and play, here is a guide to some of the area’s freshest fun. Call ahead or check out the markets’ social media pages and websites to confirm dates, times and vendors. 28
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Hilton Head Island Farmers Market With a mission of fixing the food system starting at the local level, the Hilton Head Island Farmers Market takes place at the Coastal Discovery Museum every Tuesday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Showcasing hidden family farms and small kitchen operations, everything at this market is 100% locally sourced – from microgreens and other produce, pork, whole chickens, free-range rabbit, seafood, sausage and eggs to all-natural dog treats, honey, freshly baked breads and desserts, imported cheeses and CBD products, as well as works from Lowcountry artists and authors. Order ahead from many of the farmers and vendors and stop by for a quick pick up or grab lunch from one of the food trucks and make a day of it exploring Honey Horn’s 68 acres of gardens, marsh boardwalks, the Butterfly Habitat and public art, as well as the live animal exhibits, Kids Zone, art exhibitions, permanent displays and Museum Gift Shop within the Discovery House.
Market and Museum admission and parking are free. Visit the Hilton Head Island Farmers Market page on Facebook, the website at hhifarmersmarket.com or contact Market Manager Marissa Paykos of Whippoorwill Farms directly at (843) 4735231 to confirm that week’s farmers and producers.
The Farmer’s Market at Sea Pines Center
Presented by Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe, The Farmer’s Market at Sea Pines Center is a community event “bringing farm fresh and LOCAL” to Hilton Head residents and visitors on Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A specialty food company and scratch kitchen that supports local and regional farmers and manufacturers, Lowcountry Produce produces a line of small-batch gourmet foods distributed to more than 2,000 stores nationwide. In addition to the location at The Shops at Sea Pines Center which offers a selection of meats,
