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Eat Local: Farm-Fresh Finds in Northeast Louisiana

All the details on PYO Farms, Farmers Markets and More!

By Missy Robertson, Publisher, Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe May 9, 2024

With spring turning into summer in Northeast Louisiana, It's time to embrace the freshness of the season by eating local. From pick-your-own farms where you can create unforgettable memories (and great photos!) with your little ones, to CSAs offering a bounty of seasonal delights and local farmer's markets ... there are plenty of ways to eat fresh in Northeast Louisiana! 

By choosing locally grown produce, you're not only treating your taste buds but also supporting sustainable agriculture and the hardworking farmers in the Northeast Louisiana area.

Discover where you can find locally grown fruits, and vegetables to bring home to your family:


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Pick-Your-Own (PYO) Farms

It's a hands-on adventure at this PYO farm, where you can enjoy the experience of picking fruit straight from the fields. Here's a top pick of what's open now:

Indian Village Harvest Farm (Facebook Page)
1976 Guyton Swamp Rd., Calhoun, LA
(318)235-3228

What to expect: There are still beautiful strawberries in the field for you to pick! You will want to check their Facebook Page for specific hours and availability. We also have some really exciting news, peaches are being picked now! In addition, to strawberries, peaches, and all kinds of goodies like breads, jams, and ice cream, they have a playground and a petting zoo! 

Do you know of any other PYO farms in Northeast Louisiana that we should add to our list? Let us know at mackidmonroela@macaronikid.com.



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Farmers Markets in Northeast Louisiana

Northeast Louisiana farmers markets are a great place to spend a {morning/evening, as relevant} browsing fresh produce, locally-produced artisanal goods, and much more. Here's where to find farmer's markets in Northeast Louisiana:

Ruston Farmers Market
220 E Mississippi Ave., Ruston, LA
(318)957-1305

Details: Open every Saturday from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. You will find all types of products from cutting boards, farm fresh eggs, peppers, soaps, and much more! While you are there don't forget to stop by Heard Freight House Food Park for some incredible food!

Big Announcement: Ruston Farmers Market is excited to announce that the Ruston Farmers Market will be hosting the Park Haus Peach Cookery Contest on June 1st!

Contestants will bring their dishes to the Ruston Farmers Market on Saturday, June 1st at 9 am. Judging will take place behind closed doors at 10:00 am. The winner will be announced by noon and contestants will pick up their dishes by 1:00 pm! The contest will be limited to one category (Peach Pie/Cobbler) for two age groups (Adult/Youth). Click the link below to register!

REGISTER NOW


Farmer's Market at Seventh Square
1700 N 7th St., West Monroe, LA
(318)322-2203

Details: Grand Opening is on May 20th, 2024, Monday - Friday, 7:30 am - 5:00 pm, Saturday 7:30 am - 4:00 pm


Monroe Farmers' Market
1212 Washington St., Monroe, LA
(318)329-2225

Details: Grand Opening May 20th, 2024, Monday - Saturday, 6:00 am - 12:00 pm

Do you know of any other farmers markets in Northeast Louisiana that we should highlight? Let us know at mackidmonroela@macaronikid.com!


More Local Food Adventures

In addition to PYO farms and farmers markets, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the local food scene. You've got to check out The Back Alley Market where you will find local produce, meats, seasonings, and a little bit of this and that! Next up, is the 74th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival! This festival takes place on June 1st, 2024 featuring live music, an arts market, a kids area, food vendors, and PEACHES! This festival takes place in beautiful Downtown Ruston.