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The Virginia Beach Farmers Market is more than locally-grown fresh fruits and vegetables. It offers a great shopping experience as well as a great family experience.

When it comes to shopping, there are a variety of shops. The Farmer's Market regulars include a candy shop/bakery, a restaurant, a butcher, various home and garden gift shops, a dairy store, an organic grocer, and even a wild bird shop. Regulars enjoy Uncle Chuck selling fresh seafood from his truck. He not only sells the fish, but he will give you pointers on the best way to cook it. If you are looking for something in particular, keep in mind that not all vendors are at the market every day. Saturdays tend to have the most vendors present. You can even buy recipes in a bag from a vendor on Saturdays only. Take a stroll down Vendor's Lane and browse the market options. If you are interested in selling your creations, a booth can be rented on a daily or even weekly basis.

The Virginia Beach Farmer's Market does not stop at the shopping experience. It offers quality entertainment from April through December. Special events are often held at the market. A local favorite is Friday Night Hoedowns, which feature country or bluegrass music. From May through October, the hoedowns take place from 7:00pm until 10:00pm. It is a great opportunity to grab the family and a blanket and settle in for some entertainment. The best part is that it is free and open to the public. If hoedowns are not your style, enjoy the Saturday Night Car Cruise-Ins. Every third and fourth Saturday of the month from April through September from 5:00pm until 10:00pm, come on in and check out the cars. Classic cars from all over come out to show off their beauty. From Watermelon Festivals to Crafts Shows and Chili Cook-offs, the Virginia Beach Farmer's Market has a little something for everyone.

You can even get the children involved in the Farmer's Market experience. Hands-on programs are available for scheduling. These programs take place between March and May as well as September and November. There is no better way to learn about agricultural and rural heritage than by getting involved in the program. The programs are for children in grades K through 12 and only cost $3.00 per child.

After wandering through the market, you may find yourself hungry. Princess Anne County Grill is a great option for a warm meal. The restaurant is open daily, from 7:00am through 5:00pm except on Sunday when the hours are 7:00am until 4:00pm. During the months of May through October, there are extended hours until 10:00pm on Fridays to accommodate the events. However, if you prefer, just pack a picnic lunch and find a spot at one of the picnic tables.

There is a little something for everyone at the Virginia Beach Farmer's Market. Whether you are looking for shopping or entertainment, you are sure to find it. The Market is open year-round and is partially enclosed. There is no end to what you will experience when you head to the corner of Dam Neck Road and Princess Anne Road. Most merchants are open from 10:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Saturday and from noon to 4:00pm on Sundays, although some vendors open when the Market opens at 8:30am. You can get an early start by dining at the restaurant for breakfast, which opens at 7:00am. The produce merchants tend to be open from April through December, although some may be open during the winter hours as well.

Learn more about this author, Becky Robbins.
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