Spend an Organic Afternoon at Farmers Markets in Hershey, PA
Warmer weather is slowly but surely approaching, and what better way to welcome back the sun than milling through the aisles of a local farmers market? Pennsylvania is known for its production of dairy products, crops such as corn and hay, and for being the top mushroom producer in the nation. Hershey’s rich agricultural industry makes it the perfect place to buy farm-fresh goods and support local farmers and the community. While you enjoy your stay at The Londonderry Inn and Estate, consider visiting these four Hershey-area farmers markets that showcase the freshest produce, artisanal crafts and delectable treats.
Palmyra Producer-Only Farmers Market | 220 Campbelltown Road, Palmyra, PA
Starting in mid-May and running until the end of October, the Palmyra Producer-Only Farmers Market will be open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Located just a short four-minute drive from the Londonderry Inn and Estate, this market hosts vendors that sell products such as fruits and vegetables, cheese, yogurt, baked goods, homemade soaps and lotions, and so much more. Along with providing fresh food to the community, their goal for over 20 years has been to support local farmers and their families and strengthen our food system.
Fresh Market at Hershey Towne Square | 121 Towne Square Drive, Hershey, PA
Fresh Market is a unique, multi-leveled indoor farmers market located in a historic building, commissioned by Milton Hershey in 1936, that was once a meat processing plant and a post office. The second floor, or the Market Level, hosts over 40 vendors selling products like pressed juice, fresh guacamole and salsa, pickles, candy, and much more. On the first level, local vendors provide a casual dining experience where you can find food fit for any meal of the day. Both floors currently have the same hours — Thursday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with some vendors even staying until 8 p.m.
Farmers Market in Hershey | 1215 West End Ave., Hummelstown, PA
The Farmers Market in Hershey was co-founded by a faculty member and a research scientist at Penn State College of Medicine with the goal of supporting sustainability and wellness in local communities. The market is open May 16 to October 24 on Thursdays from 2:30-6:30 p.m. Most of their products, such as fruits and vegetables, coffee, flowers, meats, and dairy products, come from within 25 miles of the market, ensuring freshness and elevated quality and taste. If you are looking for more interactive events to attend while staying at The Londonderry Inn and Estate, the Farmers Market in Hershey also hosts weekly wellness programs, like cooking classes, health screenings and education, and local musical acts.
Market on Chocolate | 48 W. Chocolate Ave., Hershey, PA
Don’t let the name fool you — Market on Chocolate hosts such a wide variety of vendors and products that it will be impossible for you to leave with just chocolate. Located at Chocolatetown Park on the corner of Chocolate and Cocoa avenues, this market runs every Saturday from June 1 to August 31. They are an outdoor farmers market that welcomes vendors selling products like jewelry, ethnic food, apparel, meat and dairy products, art, and more. If all of your shopping makes you hungry, there are food truck options available for lunch! In addition, they host weekly fitness classes, live music, and activities the whole family can enjoy.
