Frequently Asked Questions
Visiting the Markets
When and where are the markets?
Stafford Farmers Market is open Sundays, April through the week of Thanksgiving in November, 8 AM – 1 PM, at the 610 Slug Lot, 163 Staffordboro Blvd., Stafford, VA 22556. Look for the big blue water tower near the traffic roundabout.
Woodbridge Farmers Market is open Thursdays, June through October, 2 PM – 7 PM, at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, 2300 Opitz Blvd., Woodbridge, VA 22191.
Visit our Events page for holiday, winter and special market dates.
When does the weekly season start again?
Stafford Farmers Market returns the first Sunday in April, 8 AM – 1 PM. Woodbridge Farmers Market returns the third Thursday in June, 2 PM – 7 PM.
In the meantime, visit our Events page for holiday and winter market dates.
Is there parking?
Yes. Parking is free at both markets, with accessible parking spaces right next to each market. At Woodbridge, please don’t park in spaces reserved for patients, the emergency room, or ambulances.
Do the markets run in bad weather?
Yes, our markets operate rain or shine. Safety always comes first, so in rare cases we may close for unsafe conditions such as lightning, high winds, ice, extreme cold or a dangerous heat index. For delays or closures, check our homepage and social media pages.
Can I bring my dog?
It depends on the market. At Woodbridge, pets are welcome! At Stafford, a county ordinance does not allow dogs to walk through farmers markets. This is a Stafford County rule, not a market policy. Service animals are always welcome, and you’re welcome to carry your pet or have a friend walk them on the adjacent sidewalk. Dogs are welcome at our special Shop Small Market, since it isn’t a farmers market.
Shopping
What payment types are accepted?
All participating businesses accept cash, and some also accept credit and debit cards. If a business doesn’t take cards, or you’d rather not use your card at several stops, visit the Information Tent to buy market tokens. It’s an even exchange with no extra charge, and tokens work just like cash throughout the market season.
Shopping with SNAP/EBT? Stop by the Information Tent for SNAP tokens too.
If you’re paying with cash, please bring smaller bills whenever you can!
What will I find at the market?
Seasonal produce, meat, eggs, honey, baked goods, prepared foods, plants and flowers, and locally made products. Offerings change with the seasons, so check our What’s in Season and Participating Businesses pages before your visit.
Is everything local?
We’re local first, not local only. Participating businesses are generally located within 100 miles of the market. We make limited exceptions when a product adds something our region can’t grow or produce (such as citrus fruits or olives).
Families and Kids
What is the Chicken Hunt?
Mr. Cluck Cluck hides somewhere in the market every week! Children 13 and under can find him, tell us where he’s roosting at the Information Tent, and choose Cluck Bucks or a pick from our prize box.
Where can I get the Stories From the Soil™ books?
Our books are available on Amazon and at the Information Tent on market days. Visit our Stories From the Soil page to learn more about the series.
Participating Businesses
How do I become a participating business?
Visit our Become a Participating Business page to learn about our standards and submit an information request. We’ll review your details and follow up with next steps.
How are participating businesses selected?
Acceptance is based on product type, space availability, customer service history, overall market balance, and payment history.
How much does it cost to participate?
Fees are based on your participation history with Long Family Markets and will be confirmed after you submit your information request.
What permits do food businesses need?
Food businesses must follow Virginia regulations. Most foods require permits and inspections, though some are exempt under Virginia law. For details, see the VDACS Farmers Market Vendor Guide at https://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/dairy-farmers-market-vendors.shtml or contact your local health department.
Supporting Our Work
What is Long Family Markets Foundation?
Long Family Markets Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports agricultural education, family programs, and community partnerships, including the Chicken Hunt and Stories From the Soil™.
What happens to leftover produce?
Participating businesses partner with local churches, food banks, and animal farmers to donate leftover produce. Gleaning and donations happen every week.
How can I get involved?
There are lots of ways to be part of what we’re growing! You can volunteer at a market or community project, adopt a pollinator, or support our programs with a donation to Long Family Markets Foundation. Visit our Foundation page to find the option that’s right for you.
How can I stay up to date on market news?
Sign up for our email list using the signup box at the bottom of any page! You’ll get market news, event updates, and seasonal highlights delivered right to your inbox. You can also follow us on social media for weekly updates and market-day announcements.
Still have questions?
Contact us anytime. We’ll respond within 3-5 business days.
