What is Greenmarket?
Why can't I buy oranges at Greenmarket? Why can't I buy peaches here in winter?
Do Greenmarket farmers use organic methods?
Why do different stands sometimes have the same product but of different quality or price?
How do I get involved?
How fresh is the food sold at Greenmarket?
Are all markets the same size?
What happens to unsold food?
Can I visit the farms?
How is Greenmarket funded?
I'd like a farmers market in my neighborhood.
What is an EBT card?
Will Greenmarket come to an event that I am planning?
What is Greenmarket?
Greenmarket operates farmers markets in NYC. Almost 200 local farmers, fishers and bakers sell what they grow, raise, catch and bake themselves. Middlemen or brokers are not allowed. Since 1976 we`ve worked to conserve farmland and ensure a continuing supply of fresh, local produce to New Yorkers.
Greenmarket is a program of the Council on the Environment of NYC, a privately funded citizens organization in the Mayor's Office.
Why can't I buy oranges at Greenmarket? Why can't I buy peaches here in winter?
Greenmarket farmers drive in from upstate New York and other neighboring states. Tropical crops like citrus and coffee don't grow in this region. Greenmarket farmers' homegrown crops showcase seasonal bounty such as asparagus and rhubarb in spring, peaches and corn in summer, pumpkins and pears in fall. Dairy, meats, honey, wool and more are available year-round.
Do Greenmarket farmers use organic methods?
Some do. All are personally invested in the health of the water, soil, and air on the farms where they live and raise their families. Ask the farmer about their methods. Many customers seek out farmers markets for just that reason to meet the farmer and ask how they raised each crop.
Why do different stands sometimes have the same product but of different quality or price?
Each farm at Greenmarket sets their own growing methods, quality standards and prices. Shop around to meet your needs. Whether you are on a budget or looking for a treat, Greenmarket has something for you.
How do I get involved?
We are always looking for volunteers to do everything from data entry to cooking demonstrations. See our volunteer page for more information and to fill out a volunteer application.
How fresh is the food sold at Greenmarket?
Ask the farmer. Many crops were harvested less than 24 hours before market. Some foods keep longer, such as onions, apples, potatoes and cheese. Because Greenmarket farmers grow these foods themselves and bring them from their local farms that morning, their products travel a very short time and distance from the farm to you.
All Greenmarket participants are required to follow safety standards prescribed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Farms, facilities, and markets are inspected to insure compliance.
Are all markets the same size?
Greenmarket manages weekly markets in over 40 city locations. Union Square and Grand Army Plaza boast dozens of farmers each. At other locations, the markets range in size from two to fifteen stands.
What happens to unsold food?
Unsold produce feeds the hungry. In 2006 Greenmarket farmers and bakers donated over 224,000 pounds of food to City Harvest.
Can I visit the farms?
Some farms, especially orchards, welcome visitors for pick-your-own. Ask at the stand or see our list of pick-your-own farms.
How is Greenmarket funded?
Farmers pay a fee to sell at Greenmarket. Grants and contributions are gratefully received from individual, foundations and corporations.
I'd like a farmers market in my neighborhood.
Great! Were always looking for new locations with heavy foot traffic, room for trucks, and community support. For more information call 212-788-7476 or use our email form.
What is an EBT card?
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards are used to administer financial assistance and food stamps in New York City and New York State. This card, similar to a debit card, allows the user to access his/her food stamp account and or other benefits. Customers with food stamps can now swipe their EBT cards to pay for produce, meat, dairy and baked goods at thirteen Greenmarket locations.
How can I invite Greenmarket to come to an event that I am planning?
Please use our special event tabling request.