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Matthews Community Farmers' Market farmers market in Matthews, NC
Photo: Diana X
View of Matthews Community Farmers' Market in Matthews, NC
Photo: Matthews Community Farmers' Market
View of Matthews Community Farmers' Market in Matthews, NC
Photo: Patrizia Pacini

Matthews Community Farmers' Market

4.6(329 reviews)FreeFarm
🕑 1-1.5 hours👶 Great for all ages, but especially enjoyable for toddlers through elementary-aged kids (1-10). Little ones love the colorful displays and samples, while older kids can help parents shop and learn about where their food comes from.

About

This charming Saturday morning farmers' market in historic downtown Matthews offers families a delightful way to start the weekend. Kids love sampling fresh treats from local vendors, grooving to live music, and exploring handmade crafts while parents shop for fresh produce and baked goods in a relaxed, community atmosphere.

Highlights

  • Live music performances that create a festive atmosphere for families
  • Free samples from friendly vendors offering fresh produce and baked goods
  • Local honey, jams, and sweet treats that kids love to taste and pick out
  • Handmade crafts and artisan goods perfect for browsing with children
  • Community atmosphere in charming historic downtown Matthews setting

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive closer to opening at 9 AM for the best selection and cooler temperatures during summer months
  2. 2.Bring a wagon or stroller to carry purchases and tired little legs,the market area is very stroller-friendly
  3. 3.Let kids bring a few dollars of their own to choose a special treat like fresh pastries or honey sticks
  4. 4.Park in the public lots along Trade Street or side streets,arrive early for the closest spots
  5. 5.Check the market's schedule for special events like cooking demos or seasonal celebrations that kids especially enjoy

Best Time to Visit

Early fall through late spring offers the most comfortable weather, with September and October being especially pleasant. Arrive right at 9 AM opening for the best vendor selection before popular items sell out, or come around 10 AM when live music is in full swing.

What to Know

The market runs year-round every Saturday from 9-11 AM with free admission. Street parking and public lots are available nearby, and most vendors accept cash (though some take cards), so bring small bills for easier transactions.

Seasonal Notes

The market operates year-round, with spring and fall offering peak produce variety. Summer brings berries and stone fruits kids love, while fall features apples, pumpkins, and festive decorations. Winter markets are smaller but cozy, with hot baked goods and seasonal crafts.

Nearby Eats

Walk to The Soda Shop on Trade Street for classic ice cream and milkshakes after the market, or head to Carmella's Cafe for kid-friendly breakfast and lunch options just steps away in downtown Matthews.

More Activities Near Matthews

Park

Elizabeth Lane Elementary School

Free

Elizabeth Lane Elementary School in Matthews features a well-maintained community playground and recreational spaces that are open to the public outside school hours. This neighborhood gem offers a peaceful setting with playground equipment, basketball court, and open grassy areas perfect for picnics and active play without the crowds of larger parks.

Playground

Crestdale Middle

Free

Crestdale Middle School in Matthews opens its excellent playground facilities to the community during non-school hours, offering families a well-maintained space for outdoor fun. The playground features quality equipment alongside basketball courts and spacious green areas perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket and letting kids run freely in a safe, fenced environment.

Adventure

Four Mile Creek Greenway

5.0Free

Four Mile Creek Greenway offers families a beautifully paved, multi-use trail system that's perfect for introducing little ones to biking or enjoying leisurely strolls through nature. This scenic pathway connects several Matthews parks, providing safe, car-free exploration where kids can pedal freely while parents enjoy peaceful creek views and natural surroundings.

Park

Squirrel Lake Park

4.7Free

Squirrel Lake Park is Matthews' go-to family destination, offering something for every age with its expansive playground, shaded walking trails, and a seasonal splash pad that's a lifesaver on hot summer days. With well-maintained athletic fields, covered picnic shelters, and plenty of green space for impromptu games, it's the perfect spot for both planned outings and spontaneous afternoon adventures.