Fresh From the Farm on Anna Maria Island

The rich history of agriculture in the area means there is a tremendous assortment of farmers’ markets where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and locally-prepared food. Some ongoing highlights include:

• Every Sunday from 10am-4pm enjoy the Beach Market at Coquina Beach. This seasonal market runs from November 17, 2013-April 27, 2014 and the vendors have much more to offer than just fresh produce: you can also find arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, accessories, and health and beauty items among their wares. 
• Each Sunday from November through April, the charmingly offbeat Bridge Street Market is open from 10am-3pm. They have a quirky assortment of items to choose from, and they even serve Bloody Marys and mimosas so you can sip while you shop.
• The seasonal Downtown Bradenton Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday from 9am-2pm through May 31^st on Old Main Street. The recently-revived market fits in beautifully in downtown Bradenton’s family-friendly Riverwalk area.
• The Sarasota Farmers’ Market runs year-round in downtown Sarasota. Every Saturday from 7am-1pm you’ll find over 70 vendors at this local touchstone, which has been around for over three decades

There are also plenty of onetime agriculture events in the area throughout the year. In early March, we’re looking forward to the annual Mixon Fruit Farms Orange Blossom Festival. Watch their webpage for more details: rumor has it that the World Famous Wallenda Troupe will be dazzling the audience with their high-wire stunts.

Let us know if there are any other food events that are happening on the Island that you would recommend.