Chattanooga, July 29, 2025
News Summary
The Chattanooga Market is set to kick off National Farmers Market Week with a celebration featuring local farms, crafts, and community activities. With around 200 vendors, the market highlights the importance of buying local and supports local economies. As a staple in the community since its inception, the market showcases a wide array of produce and artisanal goods, fostering connections among vendors, shoppers, and the local community.
Chattanooga
National Farmers Market Week will kick off this Sunday, and the Chattanooga Market is set to celebrate with an array of local produce, crafts, and community activities. As the largest producer-only public market in the region, the Chattanooga Market features around 200 vendors each week and attracts thousands of visitors eager to support local farms, artists, and food artisans.
The significant economic impact of the Chattanooga Market on the local community emphasizes the value placed on buying local. Operated on Sundays from spring through fall, the market serves as a vital hub for local farmers and entrepreneurs, fostering relationships between vendors and community members. This weekly gathering has become a staple for many residents, as it not only provides fresh, locally sourced products but also nurtures a community spirit.
One of the long-standing contributors to the Chattanooga Market is Hazelrig Orchards, run by third-generation farmers Pam and Mike Hazelrig from Cleveland, Alabama. Since the market’s inception in 2002, the couple has focused on cultivating a variety of produce, including tomatoes, corn, peaches, cantaloupe, blueberries, cucumbers, and apples. Their commitment to creating close relationships with vendors, customers, and community members exemplifies the heart of the market’s mission.
When the market first opened, it faced challenges, including slow attendance and empty vendor spaces. However, founder Nick Jessen’s creative promotions helped to attract customers, leading to an increase in attendance over the years. The baton was passed to new owners, Chris Thomas and Melissa Lail, in 2008, which ushered in a period of expansion and success for the market. Currently, the market boasts few, if any, vacant vendor spaces, indicating its robust popularity.
Throughout the season, the Chattanooga Market hosts various special events, such as the Street Food Festival and Market Baketacular, featuring themes to keep the experience dynamic each week. Other local farmers markets also contribute to the community atmosphere, such as the Main Street Farmers Market, which operates every Wednesday year-round and focuses on sustainable goods. Additionally, the Chattanooga River Market is open Saturdays from March to October along the Tennessee Aquarium Plaza, while the Brainerd Farmers Market showcases fresh produce and artisan items year-round.
The inclusive nature of the Chattanooga Market, where local eateries often provide food trucks, further enhances the experience for visitors. It offers an opportunity to enjoy a meal while exploring local talents, products, and specialties. Patrons not only enjoy the market on Sundays but are also known to support vendors like the Hazelrigs throughout the week.
As National Farmers Market Week approaches, communities across the nation will join in honoring the crucial role these markets play in supporting local economies and creating vibrant community spaces. The Chattanooga Market, with its rich history, community focus, and bountiful offerings, exemplifies this sentiment and continues to thrive as a gathering place for all.
FAQ
What is National Farmers Market Week?
National Farmers Market Week is an annual celebration that recognizes the importance of farmers markets in local communities, highlighting their contributions to the economy and local food systems.
When does the Chattanooga Market operate?
The Chattanooga Market operates on Sundays during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
How many vendors are at the Chattanooga Market?
The market features around 200 vendors each week, offering a variety of local produce, crafts, and artisanal foods.
What types of products can be found at the Chattanooga Market?
Shoppers can find a diverse selection of products, including fresh produce, crafts, food artisan goods, and more, all sourced from local farms and artisans.
Are there other farmers markets in Chattanooga?
Yes, Chattanooga has several other farmers markets, including the Main Street Farmers Market, Ooltewah Farmers Market, and the Chattanooga River Market, among others.
Key Features of the Chattanooga Market
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating Days | Sundays during spring, summer, and fall |
| Number of Vendors | Around 200 vendors each week |
| Market Motto | Grown on our farm – Served at Your Table |
| Special Events | Street Food Festival, Market Baketacular, and more |
| Additional Markets | Main Street Farmers Market, Ooltewah Farmers Market, Chattanooga River Market, and Brainerd Farmers Market |
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Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse: Celebrating Local Farmers and Artists
- NOOGAtoday: Farmers Markets in Chattanooga, TN
- Chattanooga Pulse: Farmers Market Season
- NOOGAtoday: Chattanooga Markets 2025 Season
- Chattanooga Pulse: Hixson Community Farmers Market Event
- Wikipedia: Farmers’ Market
- Google Search: Chattanooga Farmers Market
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga Farmers Market
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Farmers Market
- Google News: Chattanooga Farmers Market
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
