Best Farmers Markets in New Orleans

I don’t know about other New Orleans moms, but I know that there is one GIANT thorn in my side (and pocketbook) that I am about to address: grocery shopping. Is it me, or are supermarkets in the New Orleans area crazy expensive? Each month, I find myself tallying up grocery expenses and literally gasping out loud when I see how much money gets spent at the supermarket. While I have read all the advice on sticking to a budget, it can be hard in New Orleans to keep grocery expenses down. I sometimes wonder if it’s because we live in a food-centric city and culture; we all know that in New Orleans and South Louisiana, we don’t eat to live, we LIVE TO EAT.

While a lot of moms do enjoy shopping at Costco and Trader Joe’s, that isn’t always practical or economical. Several years ago I decided that in order for me to get fresh fruits, veggies, meats and seafood in New Orleans, I have to think outside the grocery store box. Enter the New Orleans Farmers Markets! This is absolutely one of my favorite New Orleans mom hacks; we have incredible farmers in Louisiana and it is an honor to support them. My personal favorite farmers market is located in St. Charles Parish where I happen to live, but the good news is that there are several farmers markets in New Orleans to choose from and visit.

German Coast Farmers Market in New Orleans {River Parishes}

Since 2003, the German Coast Farmer’s Market has been part of the landscape of the River Parishes, offering local farmers and other vendors the opportunity to reach the public directly with the freshest produce and handmade products. Since its inception, the market has expanded to also include a weekly Wednesday market in Luling. In both 2010 and 2011, it was bestowed the honor of Louisiana’s Favorite Farmer’s Market and boasts a list of over 25 vendors that sell everything from fresh veggies to handmade all-natural soap, pretty much ensuring that you can stock up on a wide range of items as if you were in your local big box store! Visit their Destrehan market every Saturday from 8 am – 12 pm and their Luling market every Wednesday from 12 pm – 5 pm.

What to Expect at German Coast Farmers Market

On the particular day that my mother and I went to the market, I brought $20 cash with me. I wound up getting a huge head of Romanesco (which is a cross between cauliflower and broccoli), some fresh baby bok choy, large green onions, carrots, a head of cabbage (for New Years!), Swiss Chard, parsley, cilantro, and satsumas. I spent less than $15 on all of that produce, which was fresh, organic, and straight from the farmers. I also stocked up on some last-minute Christmas gifts like handmade soaps and candles from some very talented local artisans. Had my freezer not been full of protein already, I could have also stocked up on fresh local meat and seafood as well. While you are shopping, also be prepared to be entertained. The market is very family and pet-friendly, with lots of events for both your little ones and furry family throughout the year, like live music, cooking demonstrations (with tastings!), pet parades, costume contests, and even their own Kid’s Krewe du Market Mardi Gras Parade. The best part is that the shopping experience is delightful. The vendors are incredibly friendly and helpful, the service is impeccable, and the prices can’t be beat. I felt great knowing that I was keeping it local and getting the best that our region has to offer.

If you are curious about what vendors and/or items will be at the German Coast Farmer’s Market each week, I encourage you to like their page on Facebook, where weekly announcements, listings of foods available, events, and even recipes are posted regularly. The German Coast Farmer’s Market website also offers information listings on their regular vendors, recipes, their schedule, and information on their “seedling cards.” Also, for the best selection, arrive early! They even sell gift cards! Note:: Please visit the German Coast Farmers’ Market Welcome Booth to use an EBT card at the market.

Crescent City Farmers Market in New Orleans 

The Crescent City Farmers Market has several locations to choose from within New Orleans. New Orleans moms can visit the market on Tuesdays uptown from 8 am – 12 pm, on Thursdays in mid-city New Orleans from 3 pm – 6 pm, and on Sundays in City Park from 8 am – 12 pm. SNAP is accepted at all of the Crescent City market locations. The website is well-maintained and updated, so it is easy to hop on and get updated hours and vendor information. Like their Facebook page to stay updated on vendors and programs offered at all of their markets.

Harahan Farmers Market {Harahan}

Harahan’s Farmers Market is family & dog-friendly, focusing on health, wellness, & positivity within the community. This farmer’s market is free to the public and open every Sunday from 9 am-1 pm at Zeringue Park {501 Oak Ave. @ Wilson & Hickory Ave. in Harahan}. A listing of their vendors can be found weekly here.

Gretna Farmers Market in New Orleans {Westbank}

The Gretna Farmers Market happens on Saturdays from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm on the Westbank of New Orleans {301 Huey P Long Avenue | Gretna, LA 70053}. Within walking distance of the iconic Mississippi River, this kid-friendly outing in New Orleans is also pet friendly. 100% free and open to the public, guests will discover a variety of smoked and barbecue meats, prepared food, dairy, local honey, baked goods, and more. Check out their social media page as well for vendor spotlights and updates.

Mandeville Farmers Market {Northshore}

The Mandeville Farmer’s Market is ideal to visit on Saturday mornings {675 Lafitte St., Mandeville, LA} for unique New Orleans gifts and crafts. While you can certainly discover food items like coffee, jellies, and boudin, this is a large market with an abundant number of other booths/vendors as well. There is often a local musician on stage, too. The market is open every Saturday from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm rain or shine. They serve as a weekly venue to bring people in the community together in a public space to support small businesses, buy goods, visit with neighbors, and enjoy entertainment. Check out their vendor of the week here!

Abita Springs Art and Farmers Market {Northshore}

The Abita Springs Art and Farmers Market is worth the drive from New Orleans! The market features produce, seafood, and poultry, all at the gorgeous Abita Springs trailhead. Unlike many of the other Farmer’s Markets in New Orleans, this one happens on Sundays. We recommend following the Abita Springs Art and Farmers Market page on Facebook to see the latest updates, vendors, and event information.

Covington Farmers Market {Northshore}

The Covington Farmers Market, less than an hour outside of New Orleans, is located at 609 Columbia Street on Saturdays from 8:00 am – 12:00 Noon and at 419 N. New Hampshire Street on Wednesdays from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. In addition to live music, guests can discover prepared foods, beef, vegetables, fruit, soaps and so much more. You can even find authentic Mexican salsa and prepared Greek and Italian cuisines. Gift cards are available! Note:: this market does NOT feature crafts.

Camellia City Farmers Market {Slidell}

The Camellia City Market, located just outside of New Orleans, is Slidell’s first “true farmer’s market.” The market is located in Olde Towne Slidell at 2055 2nd Street across from the Slidell Auditorium. On Saturday mornings, rain or shine, you can find everything from fresh Louisiana strawberries to tamales. Be sure to follow their event page because some Saturdays also feature live music or fun food trucks! Vendors accept credit cards, cash, and SNAP/EBT ($40 maximum match as of 2025) as payment. The Slidell Noon Lions Club also hosts a pancake breakfast every second Saturday of each month.

Hammond Farmers & Artisans Market {Hammond}

The Hammond Farmers & Artisans Market is open every Saturday from 8 am – 12 pm in Downtown Hammond for the best local groceries & goods. It is located in Railroad Park – 106 NW Railroad Ave, Downtown Hammond, LA. Check out their Facebook page for updates, events, and local vendor information.

If you have not yet visited a farmers market in New Orleans, you are missing out! Some of the best produce, fruits, meats, and specialty food items can be discovered at the New Orleans farmer’s markets … and the best part is that this is a kid-friendly thing to do in New Orleans!