Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,
Each month, MATPRA distributes a press release designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics four months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email (dseymour@visitlebanonvalley.com).
With summer around the corner, consider stories about the wide variety of fresh, in-season produce available at Mid-Atlantic farmers markets and roadside stands in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. To learn more about a featured destination, click the link below each excerpt to contact the destination directly.
DELAWARE
Kent County (DE)
Central Delaware has plenty of farm-fresh produce to go around and many farmers markets to explore! All year round, you can try Spence’s Bazaar & Amish Market in Historic Downtown Dover, a market that has been operating for over 85 years, or Fifer’s Orchards & Farm Store, located in Camden-Wyoming. When it gets warmer in May, you can go to the Harrington Farmers Market, Riverwalk Farmers Market, Tidal Market at Johnny Cake Landing, or the Wyoming Station Farmers Market! No matter where you stay in Central Delaware, a farm-fresh bite is just around the corner.
Visit Central Delaware
MARYLAND
Calvert County (MD)
Support local farmers and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce and goods at Calvert County’s farmers markets! Shop Tuesday afternoons at CalvertHealth in Prince Frederick, Thursday afternoons at Dunkirk District Park, and Saturday mornings in both North Beach and Lusby. From farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade treats, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to savor the best of Calvert County’s local flavors. Check out our Community Events calendar for details and make farmers markets a part of your summer routine!
Visit Calvert
Kent County (MD)
The Chestertown Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike! Held every Saturday all year round, in historic downtown Chestertown, this vibrant market showcases the best of Kent County’s agriculture, arts, and community spirit. Stroll through the picturesque square and discover fresh, locally grown produce, artisan crafts, homemade baked goods, and more. Meet friendly vendors, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and support small businesses. Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or simply looking for a taste of authentic Eastern Shore charm, the Chestertown Farmers Market offers a delightful experience year-round. For more information, visit Chestertownfarmersmarket.org.
Kent County Economic & Tourism Development
PENNSYLVANIA
Butler County (PA)
Butler County boasts a vibrant agricultural scene, with numerous farmers markets offering fresh, local produce and goods. From May through October, seasonal markets pop up across the region in Butler, Cranberry Township, Mars, and Slippery Rock. These markets provide a platform for local vendors, farmers, and gardeners to connect with the community.
For those seeking fresh finds year-round, Butler County also features several indoor farm markets, including Freedom Farms Farmers Market, Harvest Valley Farm Market, and Butler Farm Market.
Experience Butler County
Gettysburg & Adams County (PA)
The rolling hills surrounding Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, are home to one of the top apple-producing regions in America and a thriving agricultural community. A short drive from the historic downtown, you’ll find farms and markets run by families who’ve farmed this land for generations.
From April through October, Adams County Farmers Market brings together local vendors selling produce, meat, eggs, dairy products, baked goods, and more at Gettysburg Rec Park. In the countryside, check out the markets at the Historic Round Barn, Hollabaugh Bros., and Boyer Nurseries & Orchards — where freshly harvested produce is sold steps from where it’s grown.
Destination Gettysburg
Lancaster County (PA)
Lancaster County is bountifully blessed when it comes to farmers markets and roadside stands, starting with Lancaster Central Market – the nation’s oldest continuously-operating farmers market, dating from 1730. Two of our other grand-daddies are Roots Country Market & Auction in Manheim, founded in 1925, and Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction in Ephrata, operating since 1932. Come and enjoy the fresh produce, amazing selection, and incredible bargains. It’s a PA Dutch tradition!
Discover Lancaster
Laurel Highlands (PA)
There’s a reason that Ligonier Country Market, which is celebrating its 50th year in 2025, has been voted as the best farmers market in Pennsylvania. The largest and oldest farmers market in Western Pennsylvania, it’s a Saturday morning staple in this portion of the state. The Laurel Highlands region has strong agricultural roots, and the 120 vendors who gather in a large field outside the idyllic town of Ligonier offer freshly picked produce and flowers along with straight-from-the-farm beef, poultry, and eggs. Fresh breakfast and lunch options abound, and local artisans provide handmade crafts, jewelry, country crafts, and much more.
GO Laurel Highlands
Lebanon Valley (PA)
From salty soft pretzels at Foltz’s to indulgent opera fudge (a Lebanon County delicacy!) at Candyrama, the Lebanon Farmers Market provides a delicious cross-section of the flavors that make the Lebanon Valley special! Housed in a historic building with a storied history, the Farmers Market also features vendors for poultry, baked goods, seafood, cheeses, sushi, and more. While you’re here in the Lebanon Valley, be sure to pick up farm-fresh produce at one of the countless family-owned and -operated roadside stands that are sprinkled across the region.
Visit Lebanon Valley
Susquehanna River Valley (PA)
Fresh seasonal produce straight from the field, mouth-watering homemade desserts, and a wide variety of local products await you at the Lewisburg Farmers Market, one of the largest farmers markets in the region with a rich heritage dating back to 1937. Open every Wednesday from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. year-round, this Central PA treasure boasts over 100 vendors selling everything from cut flowers to local honey and maple syrup, from cheese to coffee, and a wide variety of crafts. Discover why locals consider the Lewisburg Farmers Market one of the best of its kind at www.LewisburgFarmersMarket.com or find them on Facebook.
Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau
York County (PA)
Spring in York County is a haven for those craving fresh, seasonal produce. In downtown York City, the iconic Central Market House, a beloved local staple since 1888, boasts over 50 vendors offering everything from fresh veggies to baked goods. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the historic Penn Market, in operation since 1866, where vendor-owned stalls serve up meats, cheeses, wine, and, of course, vibrant produce. For a truly hands-on experience, markets like Orchard Valley Farm and Flinchbaugh’s Orchard & Farm Market invite you to pick your own fruits—perfect for a memorable, Instagram-worthy adventure while supporting local farmers! Please visit YorkPA.org as hours vary by location.
Explore York
VIRGINIA
Culpeper (VA)
Find local farm produce, baked goods, eggs, meat, and more all year long at the new Buzzing Around Farm indoor farmers market in Culpeper, Virginia. You can also plan to stop by the open-air annual Downtown Farmers Market just around the corner. Open seasonally every Saturday from May – October, visitors can explore a wide range of local and regional farm offers, crafters, live music, and more!
Culpeper Department of Tourism
Danville & Pittsylvania County (VA)
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Danville’s Farmers Markets. Every Saturday from May 4 to October 26, the downtown market features local vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, locally raised meats, homemade baked goods, and handcrafted items. During peak season, the Market opens on Wednesdays (July 3 to August 28). The Virginia Grown Farmers Market at Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex, open Saturdays from May to September, features local farmers, florists, beekeepers, and artisans. These markets celebrate Virginia’s rich agricultural heritage, providing a warm, family-friendly setting where every visit is an opportunity to connect, savor, and support local traditions.
Visit SoSi
Fairfax County (VA)
No matter where you are in Fairfax County, you’re a stone’s throw from a fresh and local farmers market. Home to nearly 20 different markets on most days of the week, many only sell what they raise on their farms or make from scratch. In addition to produce and home-baked goods, others offer artisan crafts, textiles, and gifts made locally in Fairfax with love.
Visit Fairfax
Shenandoah County (VA)
Ranking fifth in Virginia in agricultural production, the farming industry is the backbone of Shenandoah County’s economy. It’s no wonder this region was once known as “The breadbasket of the south.” Today visitors can experience the agricultural heritage of this area through the many locally infused restaurants and hands-on experiences like picking your own berries, pumpkins, and grape stomping. We invite you to meet the local producers by visiting the many roadside stands, nurseries, farm markets, wineries, and seasonal farms in the Northern Shenandoah Valley.
Visit Shenandoah County Virginia
Staunton (VA)
The Staunton Farmers’ Market is a vibrant, producer-only market in the heart of downtown Staunton, showcasing the best of the Shenandoah Valley’s local agriculture and artisanal goods. Open Saturdays from April through November, the market features farm-fresh produce, pasture-raised meats, dairy, baked goods, flowers, and handcrafted items—all grown or made within a 75-mile radius. Visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere while supporting local farmers and makers committed to sustainability and quality. Located in the Wharf parking lot, the Staunton Farmers Market is a beloved community hub that connects residents and visitors with fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced products.
Visit Staunton, VA
Waynesboro (VA)
The Waynesboro Farmers Market is more than just a market—it’s a gathering place where local farmers, artisans, and community members come together to celebrate fresh, local food. The market is open May-October, every Saturday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., rain or shine! The market takes place under the pavilion in Constitution Park, just steps away from the vibrant, historic downtown and right on the South River Greenway. Take advantage of the paved two-mile path before or after you visit the market and get a dose of fresh air to go with your fresh, local food!
Visit Waynesboro
Apply NOW for MATPRA’s Media Marketplace!
Are you ready to uncover fresh, compelling stories in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic? Join us at the 2025 annual conference, August 12-14, where travel journalists and PR experts come together to network, brainstorm, and arrange visits to unique destinations across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. This year’s host, Reading & Berks County, Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, invites you to dive into its rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. There will also be pre- and post-FAM opportunities across the region.
Don’t miss out on the chance to be one of only 60 journalists to experience this one-of-a-kind region and connect with industry professionals at MATPRA’s Media Marketplace. Apply online at https://matpra.org/media-marketplace/marketplace-application/ by March 28, 2025!
About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.
