One of the things that makes living in and around New Kent County so special is the access to genuinely local food. We're surrounded by farmland, rivers, and producers who grow, raise, bake, and make the things they sell. And every week from spring through fall — and in some cases year-round — farmers markets across the area bring all of that together in one place.
Whether you're picking up heirloom tomatoes for a weekend cookout, grabbing fresh-baked bread for Sunday breakfast, or just enjoying a Saturday morning with your neighbors, these markets are a big part of what makes this region feel like home. Here's every farmers market near New Kent County worth putting on your regular rotation.
New Kent Farmers Market
What makes it unique: A producers-only market — every vendor grows or makes what they sell, and all must be within a 30-mile radius. It's the definition of authentic local. Expect live acoustic music and rotating food trucks that make it a true Saturday morning community gathering.
Parking is easy at the pavilion lot off the roundabout at New Kent Highway and Vineyards Parkway. Bring cash for smaller vendors, though many now take cards. Arrive by 9:30 for the best selection — popular items sell out fast on peak summer Saturdays.
West Point Farmers Market
What makes it unique: Set right where the Mattaponi and Pamunkey Rivers converge, this market has one of the most scenic settings of any in the region. The timber-frame pavilion at Riverwalk Park is a beautiful structure, and the whole riverside atmosphere gives it a relaxed, weekend-vacation feel even when you're just picking up your weekly vegetables.
The market opens a full hour earlier than most in the area (8 AM), which is great for beating the summer heat and getting first pick. Parking is available at Riverwalk Park. After the market, walk along the river or grab breakfast at one of West Point's small-town cafes.
Charles City Farmers & Artisans Market
What makes it unique: Charles City is doing something different. The county is developing Market 5 — a new market concept off Route 5 using repurposed shipping containers for retail and dining. It's part farmers market, part community marketplace, and it reflects Charles City's creative approach to supporting local agriculture and small business.
Since the market format is evolving, check the Charles City County website or Visit Charles City page before heading out. The upside is that when the fall market season launches, it'll be a unique experience you won't find anywhere else in the area.
Ashland Farmers Market
What makes it unique: Ashland's market has real small-town railroad-town charm. The town itself is walkable and quirky, and the market sits in a community-oriented setting that feels like a neighborhood gathering. It runs longer than most — all the way through November — so you can get late-season tomatoes and fall squash well after other markets close.
Ashland is about 25–30 minutes from New Kent, making it an easy Saturday morning drive. Pair your market visit with a stroll through Ashland's charming downtown, where you'll find independent shops and cafes along the railroad tracks.
Hilton Village Farmers Market
What makes it unique: This is the rare year-round market, which means you can get fresh local goods even in the middle of winter. The Hilton Village setting is walkable and historic, and the combination of farm produce and fresh-caught seafood from the nearby Hampton Roads waterways gives it a distinctly coastal Virginia flavor.
Hilton Village is a great little neighborhood to explore after the market. Grab coffee, browse the shops, and enjoy the pedestrian-friendly streets. It's about 40 minutes from New Kent — a solid choice for a weekend morning outing, especially during the off-season when other markets are closed.
Buckroe Beach Farmers Market
What makes it unique: This market pairs perfectly with a beach day. Buckroe Beach is one of Hampton's favorite public beaches, and the Saturday market brings together local farmers and artisans right in the heart of the waterfront neighborhood. It's bigger than many neighborhood markets, with a four-hour window and a lively, eclectic mix of vendors.
Make a morning of it — browse the market, then walk to Buckroe Beach for some sun and surf. The market runs until 1 PM, giving you plenty of time. About 45 minutes from New Kent via I-64 East, it's a great Peninsula day trip.
Smithfield Farmers Market
What makes it unique: Smithfield is famous for its ham, and the farmers market carries that proud agricultural tradition. You'll find ranchers selling local meats alongside produce growers, bakers, and artisans. The historic Main Street setting adds to the experience — it's one of those markets where you end up staying longer than planned because the conversation is as good as the produce.
Smithfield is about 40 minutes south of New Kent via Route 10 and Route 31. Plan to walk Main Street after the market — it's one of the most charming historic downtowns in the Hampton Roads area, with specialty shops, restaurants, and the famous Smithfield Inn.
Dorey Park Farmers Market
What makes it unique: This is one of the largest farmers markets in the greater Richmond area — 50-plus vendors under one roof, essentially. What really sets it apart is the mission: Dorey Park Farmers Market is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that accepts SNAP benefits and offers Virginia Fresh Match incentives, making fresh food accessible to everyone. The market sits within the Dorey Park complex, which includes a dog park, fishing pond, and access to the Virginia Capital Trail.
This market is worth the drive for the sheer variety. Bring the whole family — kids can hit the playground or explore the park while you shop. It's about 30 minutes from New Kent via the Virginia Capital Trail corridor. Live music and kids' activities on select Saturdays.
