Visit North Carolina’s #1 Farmer’s Market: The Black Mountain Tailgate Market
America’s Farmers Market Celebration™ highlights the important role farmers markets play in communities across the nation while celebrating the farmers, staff, and volunteers that make markets happen. The organization hosts the only annual ranking of the top farmers markets in the United States as voted on by the public.
Aaannndd the winner of the 2025 AFMC’s 17th annual Farmers Market award? The Black Mountain Tailgate Market! Not only was our Market voted #1 in North Carolina but also ranked 7th in the nation! Let me tell you a few reasons why…
A Market with a Mission
For the last 32 years, the Black Mountain Tailgate Market has been a celebration of Swannanoa Valley flavors, expertise, and talent. Nearly every Saturday from March through December, visitors and locals alike shop the friendly, family-oriented market for a variety of products including organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, locally-raised meats, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs, honey, and handcrafted items.
In addition to providing a platform for farmers, food producers, and artisans to sell their products directly to consumers, the market also offers educational programming on health, wellness, sustainability, and nutrition. As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, the market also promotes food equity through food access programs while also supporting local farms, artisans, and likeminded non-profit organizations through charitable donations.
Shop like a Local
Take it from a local. Everything at the Tailgate Market is so fresh and delicious! Plus, all the vendors are super friendly, and they’re all true experts in their fields (pardon the pun) of Western North Carolina horticulture. Every time I shop there, I always learn something new.
At the Tailgate Market, your kids are invited to participate in children’s activities, and your entire family can enjoy live music by local musicians! Bring a blanket or lawn chair so you can kick back and take in the show. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are always welcome. Follow @blackmountainmarket on Facebook and Instagram for the most up-to-date concert schedule, map, sponsors, parking, and more.
The first time you visit, be sure to stop by the Black Mountain Tailgate Market tent where you can learn more about the organization’s educational endeavors including wellness, health, sustainability, and nutrition programs. You can make a donation to support their mission, and they have really cute merch (proceeds from sales support their efforts).
2026 Market Season
The Black Mountain Tailgate Market is expanding its season in 2026, which means that from May to November, you’ll find them at their beloved greenspace behind First Baptist Church. From March to the end of April and again in December, you'll find the Market in downtown Black Mountain at Foothills Grange.
SPRING MARKETS
Saturdays: March 7 - April 25
*Pi Day Baking Contest is March 14!
10 am - 2 pm
Foothills Grange in Black Mountain Old Town District, 110 Black Mountain Ave.
MAIN SEASON MARKETS
Saturdays: May 2 - November 21
9 am - 12 pm
First Baptist Church of Black Mountain, 30 Montreat Road
HOLIDAY MARKETS
Holly Jolly Weekend December 4-5, plus December 12 and 19
Foothills Grange in Black Mountain Old Town District, 110 Black Mountain Ave.
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About the Author
This blog story was written by Amy J. Schultz, an award-winning author, brand/marketing strategist, and overall creative type. She, her husband Brian, and their giant dog Bentley love their downtown Black Mountain neighborhood.
