The Best Organic Farmers’ Markets in Melbourne

Want seasonally fresh, local and organic produce that’s fantastic value for money? A weekly trip to one of the many farmers’ markets in Melbourne will give you just that.

Surprisingly, fresh produce from farmers’ markets tends to be more affordable than store-bought produce. Plus, there’s virtually no packaging, and your money goes straight to supporting farmers who care about product quality and the environment. It’s a win-win situation!

If you want to support the local food industry and have a fun morning out, check out some of these farmers’ markets across Melbourne.

Note: these markets are plastic bag free, so remember to bring your reusable bags! Most markets also require a small donation (usually $2) to support ongoing market management.

Carlton Farmers’ Market

The Carlton Farmers’ market offers a range of fresh fruit and vegetables, herbs, meats, free-range eggs, cheese, traditionally made bread, gourmet food, and beverages. As the market is held in a primary school, your kids will love playing on the playground equipment while you shop.

When: 8am-1pm, the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month.

Collingwood Farmers’ Market

This market is fantastic to take little ones to, as it involves a walk through the Collingwood Children’s Farm. Although this market is close to the city, it has a real country market vibe. It’s surrounded by quintessentially Australian gum trees, and there are bales of hay to sit on while you enjoy some delicious, home-made food and live music. There’s a wide range of producers, from fresh produce to gourmet chocolate, vegan cakes, beer, local olives and a wide range of ready to eat delights to enjoy.

When: 8am-1pm, the 2nd Saturday of each month

Bonus tip: On the 4th Saturday of each month, there’s a slow food market just opposite the farm at Abbotsford Convent.

Alphington Farmers’ Market

This market at the Melbourne Innovation Centre has a range of Victorian producers, from fresh fruit, vegetables, organic dairy, eggs and traditionally made bread, to ready-made food and gourmet delights. Be sure to check out artisanal cheese maker Boatshed Cheese who make a range of divine cow, goat and vegan cheeses.

When: 9am-1pm, every Sunday

Gleadell St Market, Richmond

This local’s favourite Saturday morning visit in Richmond has a range of fresh produce, flowers, food and other goodies.

When: 7am – 1pm every Saturday

Gasworks Farmers’ Market, Albert Park

Based in the Gasworks Art Park, this lovely market offers the usual produce, plus is close to the Gasworks artist studios where you can soak up some art at the galleries.
When: 8am – 1pm 3rd Saturday of each month

The University of Melbourne

Held every Wednesday on the lawn at Melbourne Uni, this market offers fresh produce as well as several ready to eat options. If you want to save your weekends for relaxing and sleeping in, and you work near the city, this market is a great option to take your hump day lunch break at.

When: 10:30am – 2:30pm every Wednesday

Flemington Farmers’ Market

Situated at Mt Alexander College, this market offers a range of produce, from fruit, vegetables, meat, eggs and olive oil, through to local honey, nuts, chocolate and even kombucha.

When: 9am -1pm every Sunday

Veg Out St Kilda Farmers’ Market

Set in a beautiful park, this St Kilda favourite has the typical market fare, with some delicious add-ons such as olive oil and even energy boosting ginseng.

When: 8:30am-1pm, 1st Saturday of each month

The Fitzroy Mills

This fairly new market in the gorgeous Fitzroy Mills boasts a mix of fresh produce and handcrafted, artisanal food and wine. Discover deliciously healthy fresh juices or gelato, or even some healthy, biologically appropriate food for your pooch.

When: 9am-2pm, every Saturday

Whitehorse Farmers’ Market

Further afield in Nunawading, this market boasts a wide range of local produce from fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy and eggs, to wine, gourmet jams and chutneys and herbs.

When: 8am-1pm, 2nd Sunday of each month

Want to find a market closer to your area? Explore more markets here.

Blog post loving provided by Melissa, a naturopathic nutritional therapist and transformational coach who helps exhausted businesswomen reclaim their energy so they can maximise their productivity and success in business.

Feature image: @foodienfabulous