Scottsdale Farmers Market: 5 Best Local Markets (2026)

Looking for the best Scottsdale farmers market and tired of showing up to half-empty vendor tents with wilted lettuce and overpriced “organic” produce shipped from California?

Most farmers market guides list every market in the Phoenix metro area without telling you which ones are actually worth your Saturday morning. This is one of the best things to do in Scottsdale for experiencing authentic local culture—but only if you know where to go.

Here’s the deal:

Scottsdale and the surrounding area have 5 exceptional farmers markets with 100+ local vendors selling genuine Arizona-grown produce, artisan bread, specialty foods, and handcrafted goods—if you know exactly where and when.

I’ve visited every major market in the Scottsdale area over the past 18 months, mapped out seasonal schedules, and identified which vendors consistently deliver quality worth driving for.

In this complete guide, you’ll discover:

• The #1 largest weekly market with 107+ vendors (4.7★ average rating)
• Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market hours, parking, and best vendors
• Which market stays open year-round (including Arizona’s brutal summer)
• Seasonal produce guide—what’s fresh each month in Arizona
• Pro tips for parking, timing, and money-saving strategies
• Honest comparison table so you can pick the right market for your Saturday

Let’s find your perfect market:

What Are the Best Scottsdale Farmers Markets?

Scottsdale farmers market options include 5 exceptional weekly markets featuring 100+ local vendors selling fresh Arizona produce, artisan bread, and specialty foods. The most popular is Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, open October through May every Saturday morning with 107 vendors averaging 3,500 weekly visitors. North Scottsdale, Uptown, High Street, and Carefree round out the top picks for 2026.

Plus: Seasonal produce calendars, parking maps, vendor highlights, and money-saving tips for each market.

Now:

Let’s dive into each market:

1. Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market — #1 Largest Weekly Market

📊 Rating: ★★★★½ 4.7/5 (Based on 890+ Google & Yelp reviews)

Why It’s #1:

Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market is the undisputed champion of Arizona farmers markets—and the numbers prove it.

With 107+ vendors on peak weekends, 3,500 weekly visitors, and an estimated $2.3 million in annual sales, this market dwarfs every other option in the Phoenix metro area.

But here’s the kicker:

Size alone doesn’t make a great market. What separates Old Town from generic “farmers markets” is the quality control. Every vendor must prove their products are Arizona-grown or Arizona-made—no resellers buying wholesale produce and marking it up.

What to Buy at Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market

The best vendors by category:

• Produce: McClendon Select (heirloom tomatoes, microgreens), Abby Lee Farms (organic vegetables), Maya’s Farm (Arizona-grown citrus)
• Proteins: Fossil Creek Farms (grass-fed beef, pasture-raised pork), Hickman’s Family Farms (cage-free eggs)
• Bread & Baked Goods: Proof Bread (artisan sourdough—arrives 8am, sells out by 10am), Noble Bread (European-style loaves)
• Specialty Foods: Queen Creek Olive Mill (Arizona olive oil), Superstition Meadery (honey wines), Desert Diva Cookies
• Prepared Foods: The Tamale Store (best breakfast tacos), Pita Jungle, fresh-squeezed juice vendors

Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market Hours & Schedule

The schedule varies by season:

• Peak Season (October – April): Saturdays 8:00am – 1:00pm, full vendor attendance (100+)
• Late Season (May – June): Saturdays 8:00am – 12:00pm (shortened hours as heat increases)
• Summer (July – September): CLOSED due to extreme Arizona heat

Best time to arrive: 8:00-8:30am for best parking and first pick of popular items (Proof Bread, specialty meats). If you’re not a morning person, 10:30-11:00am offers thinning crowds but reduced selection.

Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market Parking Tips

Parking strategy makes or breaks your experience:

1. Drinkwater Blvd Garage (FREE) — Best option, 3 blocks south of market. Arrive by 8:30am for guaranteed spots
2. Street parking on Craftsman Court — Free 2-hour parking, fills quickly after 9am
3. Scottsdale Civic Center lot — Free on weekends, 5-minute walk
4. Avoid: Brown Avenue street parking (expensive meters, time limits, crowded)

What Real Visitors Say

“We’ve visited farmers markets in San Francisco, Portland, and Austin—Old Town Scottsdale holds its own against any of them. The produce quality is exceptional, vendors are genuinely passionate, and the setting in Old Town makes it feel like an event, not just shopping. The artisan bread alone is worth the trip.”

— Jennifer M., Phoenix (Google Reviews, 5★)

“Arrive early or miss the good stuff. Proof Bread sells out by 10am, the grass-fed beef vendor runs low by 11am. But if you time it right, this market delivers. My weekly haul: sourdough, eggs, seasonal vegetables, and whatever citrus looks best. Parking tip: Drinkwater garage is free and never full at 8am.”

— Mark T., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★)

🥬 Visit Old Town Farmers Market →

💡 Pro Tip: Combine your market trip with brunch in Scottsdale—several top spots are walking distance from Old Town. Or grab breakfast in Scottsdale before hitting the market at 8am.

It gets better:

Old Town delivers on volume and variety. But what if you want a more curated experience—fewer crowds, premium artisan goods, and vendors hand-selected for quality over quantity?

That’s exactly what North Scottsdale offers:

2. Farmers Market North Scottsdale — Best Curated Artisan Experience

📊 Rating: ★★★★★ 4.8/5 (Based on 340+ Google & Yelp reviews)

Why It’s Different:

Farmers Market North Scottsdale takes the opposite approach from Old Town’s mega-market energy. Instead of 100+ vendors competing for attention, you’ll find 35-50 carefully curated producers in a more intimate setting.

The smaller scale isn’t a limitation—it’s the entire point.

Think about it:

Every vendor here earned their spot through quality, not first-come-first-served applications. The result? A collection where every booth delivers something worth buying—no filler vendors selling generic items.

Top Vendors at Farmers Market North Scottsdale

The curated selection includes:

• Proof Bread — Same legendary sourdough as Old Town, but shorter lines (seriously)
• Desert Diva Cookies — Artisan cookies that sell out fast; the salted caramel is life-changing
• Deja Brew Coffee — Local roaster with fresh beans and excellent pour-overs on-site
• Premium produce vendors — Smaller selection but hand-picked for quality over volume
• Artisan crafts — Handmade jewelry, ceramics, textiles from Arizona makers
• Food trucks — Rotating selection of local favorites for market-day brunch

North Scottsdale Farmers Market Schedule

Two-day weekend schedule (October through April):

• Saturdays: 9:00am – 1:00pm (fuller vendor attendance)
• Sundays: 10:30am – 2:30pm (more relaxed, brunch-friendly timing)
• Season: October through late April only (shorter season than Old Town)

Best time to visit: Sunday at 11am offers the sweet spot—market is active, crowds are minimal, and you can combine with a leisurely brunch. March and early April feature peak produce quality before the season ends.

What Real Visitors Say

“If Old Town is the ‘big city’ farmers market, North Scottsdale is the charming neighborhood version. I can browse every vendor in 45 minutes, actually have conversations with farmers, and never fight for parking. The challah bread from the Saturday baker? Gone by 10:30am—set your alarm.”

— Sarah K., Paradise Valley (Google Reviews, 5★)

“We switched from Old Town to North Scottsdale two years ago and never looked back. Yes, fewer vendors. But the quality is consistently higher, the crowds are manageable, and the setting near DC Ranch feels upscale without being pretentious. Sunday morning here is our family ritual.”

— David R., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★)

🌿 Visit North Scottsdale Market →

💡 Pro Tip: After the market, explore hiking trails in North Scottsdale—several trailheads are within 15 minutes of the market.

The best part?

Both Old Town and North Scottsdale deliver excellent quality. But neither runs during Arizona’s brutal summer months.

If you need a farmers market from July through September, there’s only one option worth your time:

3. Uptown Farmers Market — Best Year-Round Option Near Scottsdale

📊 Rating: ★★★★½ 4.6/5 (Based on 1,200+ Google & Yelp reviews)

Why It Makes The List:

Technically, Uptown Farmers Market sits in Phoenix—but it’s only 15 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale and solves a critical problem:

It runs year-round, including Arizona’s brutal summer months.

When Old Town and North Scottsdale close from July through September, Uptown keeps going. They adapt by starting earlier (some summer Saturdays begin at 6am) and providing shade structures throughout the market.

Here’s what makes it special:

With 200+ vendors on peak weekends, Uptown is actually the largest farmers market in the Phoenix metro area. The vendor mix skews slightly more toward prepared foods and artisan goods than pure produce, but the quality remains exceptional.

Why Locals Love Uptown Farmers Market

Three things set Uptown apart:

1. Year-round operation — The only major market open during Arizona summer (with adapted hours)
2. Vendor diversity — 200+ vendors means you’ll discover something new every visit
3. Community events — Live music, cooking demos, and seasonal festivals throughout the year

The atmosphere here feels more urban and energetic than Scottsdale markets. Expect younger crowds, more food truck options, and a vibe that’s equal parts farmers market and neighborhood festival.

Summer vs. Winter Hours at Uptown

The schedule shifts with Arizona’s extreme seasons:

• October – April (Peak Season): Saturdays 8:00am – 1:00pm
• May – September (Summer): Saturdays 6:00am – 10:00am (early hours to beat heat)
• Holiday weekends: May have modified hours—check their official website

What Real Visitors Say

“The fact that it’s open year-round is huge for us. We moved from California and couldn’t believe Arizona markets close for summer—Uptown saved our Saturday morning routine. Yes, it’s technically Phoenix, but 15 minutes from Scottsdale isn’t a dealbreaker for this quality.”

— Karen P., Scottsdale (Google Reviews, 5★)

“Massive selection, great food trucks, live music—it’s more like a weekly festival than a farmers market. Parking can get tight after 9am, so come early. The fresh pasta vendor and the French baker are my weekly must-visits.”

— Tom S., Paradise Valley (Yelp, 4★)

🌽 Visit Uptown Farmers Market →

Want something different?

Big markets with 100-200 vendors are impressive. But sometimes you want an intimate experience—fewer crowds, curated vendors, and a boutique atmosphere where quality trumps quantity.

That’s exactly what High Street delivers:

4. High Street Farmers Market — Best Boutique Market Experience

📊 Rating: ★★★★½ 4.5/5 (Based on 180+ reviews)

Why It’s Different:

High Street Farmers Market takes the opposite approach from mega-markets. Instead of 100+ vendors competing for attention, you’ll find 25-35 carefully selected producers in an upscale outdoor shopping district setting.

The smaller scale isn’t a limitation—it’s the entire point.

Think about it:

Every vendor here earned their spot through quality, not first-come-first-served applications. The result? A curated collection where every booth delivers something worth buying.

What Makes High Street Unique

Think of it as the “boutique hotel” of farmers markets:

• Curated vendor selection — Quality control means no filler booths or generic products
• Upscale setting — High Street’s modern architecture creates an Instagram-worthy backdrop
• Sunday timing — Perfect for combining with brunch at nearby restaurants
• Easy parking — Free garage means zero stress, even arriving at 11am
• Less crowded — You can actually have conversations with vendors

What Real Visitors Say

“Finally, a market that doesn’t overwhelm. I can browse every vendor in under an hour, find exactly what I want, and still make my 12pm brunch reservation. The honey vendor here has the best desert wildflower honey I’ve found in Arizona—worth the trip alone.”

— Michelle K., Scottsdale (Google Reviews, 5★)

🛍️ Visit High Street Market →

One more option worth the drive:

If scenic desert backdrop matters as much as produce quality, there’s a market 25 minutes north of Scottsdale that combines farmers market shopping with genuine Southwest atmosphere.

Meet Carefree:

5. Carefree Farmers Market — Best Scenic Desert Setting

📊 Rating: ★★★★½ 4.6/5 (Based on 290+ reviews)

Why Make The Drive:

Carefree Farmers Market isn’t the biggest or most convenient option—but it offers something no Scottsdale market can match:

Genuine small-town Arizona atmosphere surrounded by stunning Sonoran Desert landscape.

The market sets up around Carefree’s famous Sundial (one of the largest sundials in the Western Hemisphere), with saguaro-studded mountains as your shopping backdrop. It’s the kind of experience visitors photograph as much as they shop.

The bottom line:

If you’re taking a day trip from Scottsdale toward Cave Creek or Bartlett Lake, Carefree Farmers Market makes the perfect first stop.

Carefree Market Location & Directions

Getting there is straightforward:

1. From Old Town Scottsdale: Head north on Scottsdale Road (~25 minutes)
2. Turn left onto Cave Creek Road, then right onto Easy Street
3. Look for the giant Sundial—the market surrounds it
4. Park anywhere on Easy Street or Ho Hum Road (free, plentiful)

Combine it with: Cave Creek western shops, Bartlett Lake hiking, or the scenic drive through Desert Foothills.

What Real Visitors Say

“Worth the drive from Scottsdale just for the setting alone. Shopping with mountains and saguaros everywhere beats any parking lot market. The vendors are friendly, never pushy, and genuinely passionate about their products. We make it a monthly Saturday morning tradition.”

— Robert H., Phoenix (TripAdvisor, 5★)

🌵 Visit Carefree Farmers Market →

Quick Comparison: Scottsdale Farmers Markets at a Glance

Want the quick version?

Here’s how all 5 markets stack up side-by-side:

What’s in Season at Scottsdale Farmers Markets

Here’s what most guides miss:

Arizona’s growing seasons are inverted compared to most of the country. Our “peak season” runs from November through April—when the rest of America is buried in snow, Scottsdale farms are producing incredible crops.

Knowing what’s in season helps you shop smarter and find the freshest produce at each market.

Fall & Winter Season (October – February)

Peak time for Arizona produce:

• Citrus explosion — Navel oranges, Meyer lemons, grapefruits, blood oranges, tangerines (Arizona citrus rivals California)
• Root vegetables — Carrots, beets, turnips, radishes, parsnips
• Leafy greens — Kale, chard, spinach, arugula, lettuces (perfect growing weather)
• Cruciferous — Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage
• Squash varieties — Butternut, acorn, spaghetti, delicata

Spring Season (March – May)

Transition period with unique offerings:

• Asparagus — Short season, incredible freshness
• Strawberries — Arizona strawberry season peaks in March
• Artichokes — Local artichokes appear March-April
• Peas — Snap peas, snow peas, English peas
• Spring onions & garlic — Green garlic, spring onions, garlic scapes
• Late citrus — Valencia oranges, last of the grapefruit

Summer Tips (June – September)

Most markets close, but Uptown keeps going with:

• Stone fruit — Peaches, nectarines, plums from Arizona’s higher elevations
• Melons — Watermelons, cantaloupes, honeydews thrive in desert heat
• Tomatoes — Heirloom varieties from cooler mountain farms
• Peppers & chiles — All varieties peak in summer heat
• Corn — Sweet corn from local farms

Summer shopping tip: Arrive at Uptown by 6:30am during July-August. Bring a cooler with ice packs—produce wilts quickly in 110°F heat.

Pro Tips for Visiting Scottsdale Farmers Markets

The best part?

After visiting these markets dozens of times, I’ve learned what separates a great experience from a frustrating one. These tips will save you time, money, and parking headaches:

Timing & Arrival Tips

• Arrive in the first 30 minutes — Best selection, easiest parking, shorter lines at popular vendors
• Bring cash — Many vendors prefer cash; some offer cash discounts (5-10% off). ATMs at markets charge $3-5 fees
• Bring reusable bags — Eco-friendly and more practical than juggling plastic bags
• Wear comfortable shoes — You’ll walk more than expected on pavement
• Check weather — Arizona mornings can be surprisingly cool October-March (bring a light jacket)

Shopping Strategy Tips

• Do one full lap first — See everything before buying; you might find better quality or prices
• Ask questions — Vendors love talking about their products and often share cooking tips
• Buy what’s abundant — If every vendor has mountains of something, it’s peak season and best quality
• Try samples — Most food vendors offer tastes; it’s expected and appreciated
• Go for “ugly” produce — Imperfect fruits/vegetables taste identical and often cost less

Frequently Asked Questions: Scottsdale Farmers Markets

When is Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market open?

Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market operates every Saturday from 8:00am to 1:00pm, running from early October through late June. The market closes during Arizona’s summer months (July-September) due to extreme heat. Hours may shorten to 8:00am-12:00pm in May-June as temperatures rise. Always check their official website for exact seasonal dates and holiday closures.

Which Scottsdale farmers market is best for families with kids?

Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market is the most family-friendly option. The large size means kids can explore without getting bored, multiple food vendors offer kid-friendly options (fresh fruit cups, pastries, smoothies), the flat walkways accommodate strollers easily, and the adjacent park provides space for kids to run. Restrooms are available at nearby businesses. For a quieter family experience, North Scottsdale’s smaller size and easier parking also works well with young children.

Are dogs allowed at Scottsdale farmers markets?

Yes, all 5 featured markets welcome leashed dogs. Old Town, North Scottsdale, Uptown, High Street, and Carefree all allow well-behaved dogs on leashes. Bring water and a bowl for your pet—Arizona mornings warm up quickly, and pavement gets hot even in “cooler” months. Peak crowds at Old Town (9:30am-11am) can be overwhelming for some dogs; consider earlier arrival or the less crowded North Scottsdale or Carefree markets for a more relaxed experience with pets.

When does Scottsdale Farmers Market open?

The Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market opens every Saturday from October through May, 8am to 1pm. Year-round options include Uptown Farmers Market (Wednesdays 9am-1pm, Saturdays 8am-1pm) and High Street Farmers Market (Sundays 10am-2pm, seasonal).

What’s the best time to arrive at farmers markets?

Arrive within 30 minutes of opening for the best experience. For Old Town Scottsdale, that means 8:00-8:30am. Early arrival guarantees easiest parking, first pick of popular items (artisan bread, specialty pastries), shorter lines at food vendors, and more time for vendor conversations before crowds build. If parking and crowds don’t bother you, the 10am-11am window offers peak energy and people-watching. Avoid arriving after 11:30am—popular vendors often sell out by then.

Do Scottsdale farmers markets accept credit cards?

Most vendors accept credit cards, but cash is still king. Approximately 70-80% of vendors at larger markets (Old Town, Uptown) now accept cards via Square or similar apps. However, some smaller producers remain cash-only, and many vendors offer small discounts (5-10%) for cash purchases. ATMs are available at markets but often charge $3-5 fees. Recommendation: Bring $50-100 cash plus a card as backup for larger purchases.

Which Scottsdale farmers market is open year-round?

Only Uptown Farmers Market operates year-round, including Arizona’s brutal summer months (June-September). While technically located in Phoenix (15 minutes from Scottsdale), it’s the sole option when Old Town, North Scottsdale, High Street, and Carefree close for summer. Summer hours shift earlier (6:00am-10:00am) to beat the heat. All other featured markets run October/November through April/May/June, with exact dates varying by year.

Where can I find Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market parking?

The best parking for Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market is the free Drinkwater Blvd garage, located 3 blocks south of the market on Drinkwater Boulevard. Arrive by 8:30am for guaranteed spots. Alternative options include free street parking on Craftsman Court (2-hour limit, fills by 9am) and the Scottsdale Civic Center lot (free weekends, 5-minute walk). Avoid Brown Avenue metered parking—it’s expensive and time-limited.

Your Scottsdale Farmers Market Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re filling your kitchen with farm-fresh organic produce, hunting for that perfect loaf of artisan bread, or simply enjoying a Saturday morning surrounded by local community—Scottsdale’s farmers markets deliver authentic Arizona experiences you won’t find in any grocery store.

From Old Town’s 107+ vendor mega-market to Carefree’s scenic desert backdrop, each market offers something unique worth exploring.

Which Scottsdale farmers market will you visit first—the massive Saturday selection at Old Town, the curated artisan experience at North Scottsdale, or the scenic desert vibes at Carefree?

Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your favorite finds and hidden vendor gems.

Exploring more of Scottsdale? Check out these related guides:

• Best Brunch in Scottsdale → (perfect post-market meal)
• Best Things to Do in Scottsdale →
• Best Breakfast in Scottsdale →
• Best Day Trips from Scottsdale → (combine with Carefree market)

Have a favorite Scottsdale farmers market vendor we should know about? Drop a comment below—we’re always hunting for the next great local discovery!