farmers market update

During the growing season, April - November, the Gastonia Farmers Market Association has an agreement with the City of Gastonia to run and operate the market.  For any questions regarding becoming a vendor, please review the information below and direct your questions to the Market Manager:  fieldsandfarmers@gmail.com  

Thank you for your interest in the Gastonia Farmers Market!

Market Schedule
The Market Operates:
Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday From 7:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. (May–October)
Saturdays only in April and November

Saturdays are consistently our busiest days. Artisan craft vendors and niche products generally have the greatest success on Saturdays.

Booth Assignments & Fees
Reserved booths are offered based on vendor seniority and product type.
Pricing varies by location with in the market.
Vendors without a reserved booth are placed in order of arrival on the day of the market.
If all indoor and outdoor booths are filled, vendors may set up a tent to sell that day.

Daily Booth Fees:

$10 for outdoor spaces
$15 for indoor spaces

Payment & Token Program
If you do not accept credit or debit cards, customers may use market tokens obtained from the office. All vendors are required to accept these tokens as payment.

Tokens may be turned in at the end of the market day for reimbursement, with a $30 minimum, unless special circumstances apply.

EBT and Double Bucks tokens are clearly marked and may only be used for eligible food and plant items.

Craft vendors may not accept EBT or Double Bucks tokens. These tokens will not be reimbursed if accepted by ineligible vendors, so please check tokens carefully.

Applications & Documentation
We receive a high volume of applications throughout the year. If your application is not accepted, you are welcome to reapply in a future season, or we may contact you if an opening becomes available in your product category.

Some vendors are required to submit additional documentation, such as:

Grower’s permits for produce
Kitchen licenses for food products

All vendors are strongly encouraged to carry insurance, and an insurance waiver must be signed upon joining the market.

Questions?  Please direct all additional inquiries to fieldsandfarmers@gmail.com

Click here for the Vendor Interest Form

Farmers Market Operational Rules 

Rental Policies and Application

During the off season, December - March, the City of Gastonia can rent the building to non-profits and other organizations  for a fee to utilize it for private and public events. 

The building is 10,500 square feet and is 50x210. 

There are 3 stalls in each restroom and 1 is handicapp accessible. 

The building has power but does not have heating or cooling.  

For more information on the rental of the Farmer’s Market, you can reach out to Juliann Lehman, Keep Gastonia Beautiful Administrator at 704-869-1938 / juliann.lehman@gastonianc.gov  

Farmers Market Building & Pole Shed Rental Policies

Farmers Market Application

Applications must be submitted at least fourteen (14) days in advance of the meeting date requested. The rental fee is to be paid at least seven (7) days in advance of the date reserved.  Prices in effect starting as of 7/1/2025