The Finger Lakes region is known for its lakeside charm, scenic beauty, and vineyard-draped hillsābut itās also home to some of the most vibrant and community-centered farmers markets in New York. From hand-picked produce and handmade crafts to fresh baked goods and live music, these markets are more than just shopping destinationsāthey’re experiences.
š Why Visit a Farmers Market in the Finger Lakes?
- Meet the makers. Shake hands with the farmers, bakers, crafters, and artisans who bring their goods to market each week.
- Fresh & local. From just-picked sweet corn to heirloom tomatoes, youāll find seasonal, organic, and locally sourced foods you wonāt see in supermarkets.
- Great atmosphere. Enjoy live acoustic music, fresh donuts, wood-fired pizza, or a cup of local-roasted coffee as you browse.
š Highlight: The Windmill Farm & Craft Market ā Penn Yan, NY
If you’re only going to visit one Finger Lakes market, make it The Windmill. Located between Penn Yan and Dundee, this open-air market features over 175 indoor and outdoor vendors on beautifully kept grounds. Itās part farmers market, part craft show, part food courtāand 100% Finger Lakes charm.
What to Expect at The Windmill:
- š Amish and Mennonite baked goods and fresh cheeses
- š§ŗ Handmade furniture, pottery, quilts, and home goods
- š Locally grown produce, jams, honey, and flowers
- š¶ Live music, wine tastings, and casual eats from local food trucks
- š Family-friendly atmosphere with farm animals, garden areas, and shaded seating
š 3900 NY-14A, Penn Yan, NY
šļø Open Saturdays (AprilāNovember) + select holidays
š thewindmill.com
š Other Finger Lakes Farmers Markets to Explore:
Ithaca Farmers Market ā Ithaca, NY
Right on the waterfront with a covered pavilion. Diverse vendors offer global cuisine, art, and farm goods. Open multiple days per week.
Canandaigua Farmers Market ā Canandaigua, NY
Producer-only market with a strong focus on sustainability and community. Great for local meats, vegetables, and baked goods.
Geneva Farmers Market ā Geneva, NY
Held on Exchange Street, this smaller weekday market brings together Finger Lakes-grown goods, flowers, and live entertainment.
Corning Farmers Market ā Corning, NY
Located near the Gaffer District. Combines small-town friendliness with artisan food and handmade crafts.
š§ŗ Make the Most of Your Visit
- Bring your own bags or basket
- Arrive early for the best selection
- Donāt be afraid to chatāitās the best way to discover recipes, tips, and stories behind the products
šæ Final Thought
Exploring Finger Lakes farmers markets is one of the best ways to connect with the culture of the regionāone peach, pie, or pottery piece at a time. Whether youāre stocking up for a lakeside picnic or looking for a unique gift, thereās no better place to feel the pulse of local life.
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