Farmers’ Markets in Massachusetts and R.I. that will remain open this winter

There is nothing more fresh than locally grown foods. Local Farmer of Stoney Creek, Erin Babbitt, has been organizing her market located in Swansea, MA at 1210 Wilbur Avenue for eight years and counting.

“I raise beef cows right at the farm, and I am one of the vendors selling beef at my own market,” said Babbitt.

Cow at at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

During the spring and summer months, there is a surplus of produce, including berries, tomatoes, corn, and lettuce. Babbitt told the reporter that there are no fruits being produced during the winter. However, there are potatoes, squash and kale for sale. Hours of operation this winter are the third Saturday of each month, from December through April, at 10am-2pm.

Big tent at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

“We are a locally sourced market, so everything that we sell at our farm is maker only. We don’t do outside sales of any kind. We have a honey lady, a spice lady and a mushroom man,” said Babbitt.

Stoney Creek participates in the Healthy Incentives Program, (HIP) for produce sales only. This market also supports the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, (SNAP) which covers produce and honey sales.

Babbitt will be hosting a holiday event this month! On Dec. 17, there will be a hayride with Santa from 10am-2pm. A campfire will be lit for s’mores to be roasted. Hot chocolate is complimentary. Children are welcome for pony rides and the hayride, as well as a photo with Santa, all for just $10.00 per child.

Anyone can visit the farm any day and walk around to greet the cows, goats, rabbits and many other animal friends.

Horse at at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

Babbitt also has a horse boarding business at the farm. “People keep their horses with me. I have 18 horses on the farm. We do birthday parties here.”

Stoney Creek offers pony rides during regular market hours, for just $3.00.

Another local farmers market is Mount Hope Farm in Bristol, RI.

Bailey Bisson photo.

“Mount Hope Farm itself has a rich history in the town of Bristol dating back to the Pokanokets. The Farmers Market at the farm was established around 10 years ago,” said Katie Blais, community programs and events manager.

This farm is home to donkeys, goats, and chickens.

According to Blais, Mount Hope has a variety of foods for sale during the winter months, including apples, microgreens, baked goods, meat, eggs, seafood, cheese, maple syrup, coffee, and candles. They even sell shoes!

The Mount Hope Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9am-12:30pm, and the walking trails are open 8am-6pm daily, excluding holidays. However, there are no pets allowed.

View at Mount Hope. Bailey Bisson photo.