Growing Together: Florida Farmers Markets + FAB

Across Florida, farmers markets are more than places to shop — they’re community anchors where neighbors gather, families discover fresh produce, and farmers share the fruits of their labor. These spaces do more than feed people; they sustain small farms, strengthen local economies, and build lasting connections between growers and their neighbors.

At the heart of this ecosystem is Fresh Access Bucks (FAB), a statewide nutrition incentive program that helps SNAP participants stretch their dollars to buy more Florida-grown fruits and vegetables. By making healthy, local food more affordable while keeping sales in the hands of Florida farmers, FAB helps markets thrive on both sides of the table. Across the state, FAB and Florida’s farmers markets are growing together, creating spaces where food access, agriculture, and community meet.

In St. Augustine, a young market has quickly become a neighborhood hub centered on connection and collaboration among vendors and residents alike.

“We are a market that focuses on community, small businesses and Florida family farms and we love to have a good time, laugh, and support each other! It has been truly amazing watching the market grow, vendors getting to know their neighbors and creating personal connections with the community – It truly is a magical farmers market experience.” – St. Augustine Farmers Market

Unlike many of the city’s tourist attractions, this market was built for locals — a Sunday space where people come together to share stories, enjoy good food, and support nearby growers.

A few hours west, in Gainesville, the Grove Street Farmers Market has transformed Monday nights into a community ritual, where local food meets music, culture, and connection.

“Grove Street Farmers Market is more than just a place to shop — it’s a weekly destination and a Monday night tradition. You can sip a local beer, enjoy live music, grab dinner, and let the kids play on the lawn. It’s the perfect way to start your week.” – Grove Street Farmers Market

Farther south in Delray Beach, the long-standing GreenMarket returns each October, marking the start of autumn and continuing its tradition as a beloved community cornerstone.

“The start of the GreenMarket season truly marks the start of the season in Delray Beach. It’s a great place to meet local vendors, discover locally made products, and enjoy a welcoming environment in the heart of our historic downtown.”  – Delray Beach GreenMarket

FAB connects all of these markets through one shared mission — making healthy, locally grown food accessible while ensuring Florida farmers can sustain their livelihoods. By matching SNAP dollars for Florida-grown produce, the program turns affordability into opportunity, creating steady demand that helps both people and farms thrive.

“Fresh Access Bucks has been such an important part of what we do. By making it easier for families to choose fresh, locally grown food, it not only supports our farmers but also strengthens the entire Gainesville community.” – Grove Street Farmers Market

That impact is visible week after week. In Delray Beach, FAB has become woven into people’s routines — part of how families shop, eat, and connect.

“I see families that come to the market to use SNAP and FAB as part of their routine. We become part of their lives — it’s personal.” – Delray Beach GreenMarket

Florida’s growing conditions make its markets unlike any other. With a year-round, yet highly seasonal rhythm, markets shift with each harvest — a reflection of both the state’s abundance and its challenges. This adaptability keeps markets vibrant and farmers resilient.

“Each season brings something new and exciting! Summer means sweet corn and heirloom tomatoes. Fall brings squash and citrus; winter means leafy greens and brassicas; and spring — bring on the berries!” – St. Augustine Farmers Market

Beyond the bounty, these markets strengthen Florida’s local economies. According to national research from the Nutrition Incentive Hub and the Fair Food Network, every $1 spent through nutrition incentive programs like FAB generates up to $3 in local economic activity. More customers using benefits at markets means more income for farmers, more opportunities for local vendors, and stronger communities overall.

By bringing new shoppers to the table and expanding farmers’ reach, FAB keeps Florida’s agricultural lands productive and helps small and mid-sized farms stay financially resilient.

“Strong farmers markets keep food dollars circulating locally, which sustains small farms, supports artisanal businesses, and strengthens food security.” – St. Augustine Farmers Market

At its core, FAB is about more than matching dollars — it’s about deepening relationships between people, food, and the land that sustains them. That connection is visible every market day in the familiar faces, friendly greetings, and shared gratitude between farmers and shoppers.

“From day one, we’ve had neighbors stop by just to thank us for bringing a farmers market to their neighborhood. People are genuinely grateful to have a place to meet, connect, and support local growers.” – St. Augustine Farmers Market

From Delray Beach to Gainesville to St. Augustine, markets across Florida show that when local food access and agricultural sustainability come together, everyone benefits. At the intersection of community health and farm vitality, Fresh Access Bucks and Florida’s farmers markets are helping build a stronger, more resilient food system. One that keeps farmers farming, families eating fresh, and communities growing together.