Taste the Freshness of Buying Local at Farmer’s Markets

Many Las Vegas residents assume that since we live in the middle of a desert, we have no option but to patronize corporate chain supermarkets in order to get the fruits, veggies, nuts and herbs we need to feed ourselves and our families. But even in a city known for artificial lights and piped in water, we can access farm fresh, local produce. Las Vegas has multiple, weekly, farmer's markets where growers, artisans and craftsmen display their garden-fresh food, herbs and spices, artisan breads, and one of a kind crafts. Not only can you save money, eat fresher food, and support local farmers and food co-ops, but you can find organic and specialty items not available at your local grocery store.

Farmer's Markets are a fun way for the entire family to enjoy a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. They offer arts and crafts for the kids, community activities and live entertainment. You can even transform your weekly produce shopping trip into a fun family outing!

Living in the heart of the urban downtown is no reason to sacrifice farm fresh foods. The newest location to debut a farmer's market is the downtown 3rd district. Whether in Northwest Las Vegas, the Summerlin area, Spring Valley, or Downtown, there is a market nearby where every week you can purchase the freshest offerings for your dinner table. A couple of handy tips for shopping local farmer's markets: Bring your own reusable bag and make sure to have cash on hand.

A Guide to the Local Las Vegas Farmer's Market:

Downtown

Where: 300 N. Casino Center (near Highway 95 South and Casino Center Drive)
When: Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What you can expect:

• A sprawling indoor market, safe from the relenting heat of the summer sun.
• Top local chefs giving food demos
• Community activities
• Local bakers and food truck vendors offering freshly prepared food
• KidsZone
• UNLV master gardeners dispensing advice on how to grow herbs and produce in your own backyard

Spring's Preserve

Where: 333 S. Valley View Blvd.
When: Thursdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
What you can expect:

• Fruits, vegetables and herbs
• Local honey and fresh eggs
• Pistachios from O.U. NUTS, local roasted coffee from CRCR, and dates from China Ranch
• Beautiful scenery

Summerlin

Where: Tivoli Village (outdoors in the center of the Village and indoor at the "Walk in" in the Land Rover Experience Center)
When: Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
What you can expect:

• Fresh, organic and pesticide free fruits and veggies
• Artisan breads, nuts, spices, herbs, sauces and more
• Chef demonstrations
• Arts and crafts for the kids
• Live entertainment (when featured)
• Unique handmade goods
• Outdoor and Indoor component

Northwest Las Vegas

Where: Floyd Lamb State Park (9200 Tule Springs Rd)
When: 1st and 3rd Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What you can expect:

• Locally-grown and regional produce: including blood oranges, asparagus, beets, avocados, squash, pomelos, bok choy, strawberries, melons, corn, pumpkins, herbs, berries, fruit and more.
• Local artisans and artists offering handmade foods, arts and crafts
• weekly surprises including live music and green artists

Summerlin

Where: Brent Trent Park (1600 N. Rampart Blvd)
When: Wednesdays 4p.m. to 8 p.m. summer hours & 2p.m. to 6 p.m. winter hours
What you can expect:

• More than 5,000 visitors every week
• Fresh local produce, nuts, herbs, spices, and more
• Artists and craftsman selling their goods
• Cute pups and kittens who regularly come in the Best Friends Animal Society mobile van
• seasonal and holiday celebrations
• Tasty samples

Southwest Las Vegas

Where: Grey Gardens Park (10401 Gardens Park Drive)
When: Tuesdays from 4p.m. to 8p.m.
What you can expect:

• Regional certified produce, roasted corn on the cob, breads,
• Handmade soap, scents, arts and crafts
• Culinary artists
• Friendly people
• Nuts, seeds, fresh diary and more
• Kid's activities