Raleigh Downtown Farmers Market opens for the season

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance has sponsored the market since 2010, and it’s growing each year. Last year, about 1,700 shoppers came out for each of the market days and spent more than $140,000. Organizers say that proves there is demand for local food downtown.

“Some of the bakeries we have coming to market, some of them are starting to look at storefronts in downtown, so we hope to serve as a business incubator,” said Hallie Mittleman with the Farmers Market.

Christie Goss, who works next door to the farmers market, said she loves the selection.

“Fresh is always good, and local means we're supporting our local economy, which is a really big deal, I think,” she said. “It's great to have it here, and it's so convenient because you can just walk down and get it.”

Self-described foodie, Susan Sink, says food from farmers markets tastes better and is healthier.

“Everything here is picked a day or two in advance, so you're getting the best nutrients out of the food you're getting straight from the field,” she said.

Raleigh Downtown Farmers Market runs every Wednesday at City Plaza on the 400 block of Fayetteville Street. The season lasts into October.