Farmers markets have been going strong in Nashville for more than 200 years. It was in 1801 that farmers first brought their goods to the bustling and dusty city center. Today’s downtown market is a direct descendant of that enterprise.
Markets operate in virtually every sector of the city, including Bellevue’s Red Caboose Park. That’s where the Bellevue Farmer’s Market takes place every Thursday, May through October, from 4 to 7 p.m.
The popularity of the market soars during the final month of the season as it’s the time of year when milder days and bountiful harvests intersect.
“I think the popularity of farmers markets in general is due to people trying to buy local and eat healthier,” says Jeremy Blount, who has been operating The Bellevue Farmers Market for 10 years. “Vendors tell me they love this market because everyone seems to enjoy being with each other.”
To be sure, there are larger farmers markets in the area, including some that operate all year long. But if you’re a farmers market rookie, the Bellevue market is a great place to begin your journey. A “starter's market,” if you will.
It boasts the same caliber of goods as larger markets but with the smaller scale, it’s not so overwhelming. And, with the adjacent, recently renovated playground, the Bellevue market is perhaps the best option in town for families with young children. Special promotions are planned throughout October as well.
“That’s been my goal with this market,” says Blount. “It’s about more than just buying produce; I wanted to create something where people could come and hangout for 45 minutes or an hour and just enjoy their time here. And the more people that support this in Bellevue, the more we can do.”