I’ve lived in Richmond for 3 years now. And one of my favorite things to do is walk around the RVA Big Market on Saturday mornings. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the business owners, hearing their stories about how they got started, and directly supporting businesses working or operating in the area I live in. The RVA Big Market is a Richmond farmers market put on by GrowRVA, a company that connects the community to local businesses. GrowRVA hosts two outdoor farmers markets each week, the RVA Big Market and the South of the James Market. But what makes GrowRVA’s markets unique is that they are producer-only which means all vendors have to either make or grow the product themselves! So you really are getting the best of the best, direct business-to-consumer.
I’ve been to many farmers markets in Richmond and nothing quite compares to the RVA Big Market. I love attending the market, grabbing breakfast, and discovering new vendors every week. So I thought why not share a few of my favorite vendors?! I’ll also answer a few common questions about the markets at the end of the post.
RVA Big Market Vendors
The market has dozens of vendors but this post highlights just a few of my favorites!
SammichRVA has THE BEST breakfast sandwiches ever. They also offer a green smoothie which is great during the summer! They used to set up shop at a local spot near our apartment. And we would make it a weekly outing to grab a sandwich before heading to the farmers market. Thankfully, they are now in the same place! They often sell out due to high demand so make sure you go early to snag one!
Owl Spoon Water Kefir Co. is a business I discovered earlier this summer and I wish I would have tried water kefir sooner! Water kefir is a fermented drink similar to kombucha. However, it has a fruity, light flavor which is why I prefer it. Own Spoon prides itself on being a raw and unprocessed water kefir and the flavors are all delicious. They have 2-3 flavors on tap each week to try or drink a cup while you shop. They also sell 32 oz glass bottles which I will grab to have a cup each day. Once the bottle is empty, return it for a discount on the next bottle.
Two 1/2 Irish Men is a family-operated micro bakery that draws its inspiration from Ireland, where the owner is originally from. Each week they have new options to try and I personally think I would describe their loaves as a dessert bread. My personal favorite is the lemon-glazed zucchini bread. It is without a doubt the best to munch on after dinner or for an afternoon snack! What makes this bakery so unique is that they not only have traditional loaves but they also make gluten-free and vegan options that taste just as good as the real thing! The owner is arguably the kindest business owner I have ever met. I did recently discover an option to order online. When I am no longer in Richmond, I am happy to know I can still have this!
Monarch Flower Farm creates the most beautiful bouquets. I actually know the owners very well and was able to see this business come to life! They provide florals for weddings and events and I love their seasonal floral choices. They have a farm where they grow their own flowers to supplement their floral designs.
77 West Farm is my favorite stand for organic produce. I could list a dozen reasons as to why I am particular about organic foods but being able to shop local, organic produce is the ultimate winner! Each item is picked for the freshest possible quality and I love trying out new seasonal produce options. I regularly stock up on leafy greens, garlic, and potatoes or berries from this tent!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Richmond Farmers Markets located?
The RVA Big Market is located in Bryan Park at 4308 Hermitage Road, Richmond, VA 23227.
The South of the James Market is located in Forest Hill Park at 4021 Forest Hill Ave, Richmond, VA 23225.
What time are the Richmond Farmers Markets open?
The RVA Big Market is open on Saturday mornings. The time of year determines the exact schedule of the market. From November – April, the market is open 9am-12pm. From May – October, the market is open 8am-12pm.
The South of the James Market is open Sundays 10am-1pm.
How are the Richmond Farmers Markets set up?
Each vendor sets up a tent in their designated spot and remains there until 12pm. There is a strict cutoff time to stop selling at 12pm {at Bryan park}, so make sure you go early enough to stop by a few tents before they have to pack up!
Leave a Comment