Hampton Roads Farmers Markets Kick Off Spring Season

Local growers prepare for busy year ahead as markets return across the region.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 11:23pm

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As spring arrives, farmers' markets across Hampton Roads are reopening, signaling the start of a busy season for local growers. Farmers like Jenna Rodriguez of Seafield Farm in Cape Charles, Virginia, and David Carter of Fritillary Farms in Suffolk are gearing up to provide fresh, locally-grown produce to eager customers. Despite rising costs in the agricultural industry, these small-scale farmers are finding ways to keep prices manageable for shoppers.

Why it matters

The return of farmers markets is an important annual event for Hampton Roads communities, providing access to hyper-local, sustainably-grown food while supporting small family farms. As grocery prices continue to rise, these markets offer an affordable alternative that also helps reduce the region's carbon footprint.

The details

Farmers like Jenna Rodriguez and David Carter are stocking their stalls with a wide variety of spring and summer crops, from leafy greens and root vegetables to strawberries, okra, and edible flowers. Despite challenges like unpredictable weather patterns, these growers are optimistic about the season ahead and hope to provide high-quality, fresh produce at reasonable prices for their loyal customers.

  • Farmers markets across Hampton Roads are reopening in early April 2026.
  • Strawberry season is expected to start around Mother's Day in May 2026.

The players

Jenna Rodriguez

Owner and operator of Seafield Farm in Cape Charles, Virginia, growing a diverse range of vegetables, fruits, and flowers.

David Carter

Farmer at Fritillary Farms in Suffolk, Virginia, with over a decade of experience growing produce for local markets.

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What they’re saying

“We have a diverse range of vegetables so we can produce year-round and bring them to the market, so hopefully people can shop around and not have to go to the grocery store.”

— Jenna Rodriguez, Owner, Seafield Farm

“In general, even at the grocery store, prices have gone up, but the value I've noticed in the past year or two has really gone down on grocery store stuff.”

— David Carter, Farmer, Fritillary Farms

What’s next

Farmers markets across Hampton Roads will continue operating through the summer and fall, with the peak season expected to run from May through October.

The takeaway

The return of farmers markets in Hampton Roads signals the start of a vibrant growing season, providing local residents with access to fresh, affordable, and sustainably-grown produce while supporting the region's small family farms. As grocery prices rise, these community-driven markets offer an appealing alternative that helps reduce the area's carbon footprint.