Spring has arrived in Western Maryland, bringing with it the anticipation of vibrant farmers markets throughout Allegany County. For community members seeking fresh, locally-grown produce and handcrafted goods, our farmers markets offer not just nutrition, but a chance to connect with neighbors and support local growers. The Community Wellness Coalition is proud to highlight these essential wellness resources that support multiple dimensions of health in our community.
2025 Farmers Market Schedule for Allegany County
Mark your calendars for these weekly opportunities to enhance your wellness through fresh, seasonal foods:
Cumberland at Canal Place
- Thursdays: April 24 through October 30, 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM
- Saturdays: June 14 through October 25, 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Frostburg at City Place
- Fridays: May 16 through October 24, 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Why Shop at Local Farmers Markets?
Farmers markets offer so much more than just a place to buy groceries. They represent a powerful intersection of multiple wellness dimensions:
Physical Wellness
Shopping at farmers markets gives you access to the freshest, most nutrient-dense produce available. Fruits and vegetables begin losing nutritional value as soon as they’re harvested, so locally-grown options picked at peak ripeness provide maximum nutritional benefits. Early spring offerings like asparagus, ramps, and spring greens are packed with vitamins and minerals essential for optimal health.
Environmental Wellness
Supporting local agriculture reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Most produce at grocery stores travels an average of 1,500 miles before reaching your plate. In contrast, farmers market produce typically travels less than 50 miles, significantly reducing fossil fuel consumption and environmental impact.
Social Wellness
Farmers markets create natural community gathering spaces where neighbors connect, fostering relationships that contribute to our social wellness. These weekly events strengthen our community bonds and provide opportunities to interact directly with the farmers growing our food.
Financial Wellness
Contrary to common misconceptions, farmers markets can be budget-friendly shopping destinations. In-season produce is often priced competitively with grocery stores, and the Maryland Market Money program makes these healthy options even more accessible for eligible shoppers.
Maryland Market Money: Making Fresh Food Accessible
All Allegany County farmers markets participate in the Maryland Market Money program, which helps make fresh, local food more affordable for residents using federal nutrition benefits. The program provides matching dollars when shoppers use their SNAP/EBT, WIC, or Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits, effectively doubling purchasing power for fresh, nutritious foods.
Here’s how it works:
- Eligible shoppers can visit the market manager’s booth
- Present your benefit card or checks
- Receive matching funds to spend at the market that same day
- No application or registration required!
This program represents a powerful opportunity to stretch your food budget while accessing the highest quality local produce.
What to Expect in Early Spring Markets
As the markets open in April and May, here’s what to look forward to from our local farmers:
Early Spring Produce (April-May)
- Asparagus
- Ramps (wild leeks)
- Spring onions
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Kale and other leafy greens
- Herbs such as mint, chives, and cilantro
- Rhubarb
- Microgreens
Beyond Produce
Farmers markets offer more than just fruits and vegetables. Look for:
- Farm-fresh eggs with vibrant, orange yolks
- Locally-raised meats
- Honey and maple syrup
- Bedding plants and herb starts for home gardens
- Handcrafted goods from local artisans
- Fresh-baked goods
- Handmade soaps and personal care products
Mindful Shopping: Connecting to Your Food
Shopping at farmers markets provides a unique opportunity to practice mindfulness—a core wellness practice the Community Wellness Coalition promotes. When visiting local markets, try these mindful approaches:
- Engage your senses: Notice the vibrant colors, fresh aromas, varied textures, and distinctive tastes of seasonal produce
- Connect with growers: Ask farmers about their growing practices and for preparation suggestions
- Practice gratitude: Appreciate the hard work and dedication required to bring fresh food to our community
- Shop with intention: Consider how each purchase supports your health and our local economy
Preparing for Your Market Visit
To make the most of your farmers market experience:
- Bring reusable bags for an eco-friendly shopping experience
- Shop early for the best selection
- Bring small bills and change for easier transactions
- Consider bringing a cooler if you’ll be running errands after shopping
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions about unfamiliar produce
- Be willing to try new vegetables and preparation methods
Community Impact: Why Your Participation Matters
When you shop at local farmers markets, your dollars stay in the community, supporting local farmers and their families. For every $100 spent at farmers markets, approximately $62 remains in the local economy and $99 remains in the state. This economic boost helps maintain agricultural land, preserve family farms, and create jobs in our region.
Join Us at the Market!
The Community Wellness Coalition encourages all Allegany County residents to incorporate farmers market visits into their wellness routines. These weekly markets offer so much more than fresh food—they’re vibrant community hubs that nurture multiple dimensions of wellness.
Whether you’re a seasoned market shopper or visiting for the first time, we look forward to seeing you at the Cumberland and Frostburg farmers markets this season. Together, we can build a healthier, more connected community one market day at a time.
The Community Wellness Coalition promotes an integrated approach to wellness encompassing ten dimensions: social, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, mental, occupational, physical, emotional, financial, and medical. For more information about our programs and resources, contact us at hello@communitywellnesscoalition.org.
