LA PLATA, Md. — Spring returned in full force Saturday, April 4, as the La Plata Farmers Market opened its 2026 season with strong turnout, steady foot traffic and vendor tables that quickly began to empty as the morning went on.
Held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 209 Washington Ave. behind the Charles County Courthouse, the opening day brought residents together for a familiar seasonal tradition centered on local food, handmade goods and small businesses from across Southern Maryland.
With nearly 50 vendors set up, visitors moved from tent to tent picking up fresh produce, baked goods, specialty items and handcrafted finds. By late morning, several vendors had already sold out of popular items — a clear sign that if you want the good stuff, getting there early is the way to go.
In a blog post ahead of opening day, organizers said the market would bring back many favorite vendors along with some new ones, giving people a chance to see familiar faces and find something new to try.
Among the vendors on site were MadByrd Confections, Southern Maryland Crabs, Ohana Snow Shaved Ice, Maitri Pottery, MarDee’s Bakery, Mama Kim’s Bagels, Cove Point Winery, Beachin Bay Bakery, Raw Juice Market, Forage Dog Bakery, Zekiah Ridge Farm & Flowers, Honey Hemp Farms and many more offering a wide range of goods.
Some visitors were also treated to something a little different, as Mona Wise, owner of Maitri Pottery Studio located inside Shop 53 Custom Tattoo LLC in La Plata, created raku pottery on-site. The live demonstration gave everyone a chance to watch the hands-on process unfold in real time, turning ceramic pieces into finished works right before their eyes and offering a closer look at the craftsmanship behind the display.
Many left with pieces of their own after seeing the work and process up close, turning that hands-on experience into something they could take home and remember.
Now in its fourth decade, the La Plata Farmers Market continues to serve as a gathering place where neighbors connect, families spend time together and local businesses build lasting relationships within the community.
Visitors are reminded that while many vendors accept app-based payments, some operate as cash-only. Bringing reusable bags, baskets or wagons is encouraged.
The La Plata Farmers Market operates Saturdays through Nov. 28, with additional Wednesday markets scheduled from April 8 through Aug. 26. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More Farmers Markets Across Charles County
As the season gets underway, additional farmers markets across Charles County are preparing to welcome residents in the coming weeks.
Bryans Road Farmers Market will return Sundays from May 3 through Oct. 25, operating from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ace Hardware, 3060 Livingston Road at Route 210. The market features pop-up vendors including farmers, food trucks, cottage food producers, artists and crafters. Free admission and parking are available, and EBT is accepted.
Also at the same location, Canopy Curbside Cravings offers a food truck hub experience Saturdays from April 11 through Nov. 28, running from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., bringing together food trucks, cooks and cottage bakers for an evening option in the area.
In Waldorf, the Waldorf Farmers Market is scheduled to open for the season on Saturday, May 9, at its new location, 2935 Crain Highway, next to Burn Box Pizza. The market will operate Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through November, expanding access to fresh foods and local vendors in the Waldorf area.
Together, these markets continue to grow a network of community-centered spaces across Charles County, giving residents more opportunities to shop local and support small businesses throughout the season.
Follow the La Plata Farmers Market on Facebook to stay up to date on vendors, events and weekly happenings, and visit laplatafarmersmarket.com for full details.
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