Produce Arriving Daily

Peaches, potatoes, turnips or tomatoes - all arrive daily by the truckload in season at one of the largest produce markets in the Southeast. Perennial and annual flowers and plants also sold. Located on 50 acres on Bluff Road, across from the University of South Carolina's football stadium, the Columbia Market includes 500 open stalls. In the spring of 2009 the farmers market will move to a new location.

When it opens on April 17, 2010, the new South Carolina State Farmers Market will set a new standard for a cherished American tradition. The state-of-the-art marketplace will provide South Carolina's agricultural community a one-of-a-kind showcase, while offering area residents an attractive combination of shopping, dining and entertainment.

Located on Highway 321 (Charleston Highway) in Lexington County near Dixiana within 1.5 miles of both I-26 and I-77, the new market features separate areas for major wholesale vendors and the retail sale of South Carolina agricultural products. The new market will feature a children's play area, a 150-seat exhibition kitchen, a 400-seat outdoor amphitheater, a specialty foods shop, school bus drop-off area, an RV park, a fish market, a meat market, bakery and several restaurants.

The site will also be home to South Carolina Department of Agriculture laboratories, a 200-seat conference center and offices. The agriculture department will occupy 40 acres, which includes a separate farmers sheds section, with the rest of the 173 acres filled with the market’s wholesale facilities, retail space and public amenities. The new market will be three times larger than the old one, spread over an area the size of seven Super Wal-Marts.

To learn more, visit scstatefarmersmarket.com, email info@scstatefarmersmarket.com or contact George M. Lee III of 321 Lexington Asscociates, LLC at 803-419-4020.

Local vs. Organic- What's the deal?

There is a debate stirring around the country about the choice between local and organic produce. Which is more eco-friendly? Which is healthier? Which is better? Here are the benefits in a nutshell: local produce is going to be fresher and possibly better tasting because it does not have to be shipped as far to reach its destination. It also uses less fossil fuel and causes less pollution in transit. There is also the perk of knowing exactly where your food comes from. 

The pro-organic argument is equally convincing: organic produce is free of pesticides, which is better for you the consumer, as well as the Earth and its plants and animals. 

Regardless of what you choose, both will be available at the new SC State Farmers Market. We think that opting for either local or organically grown items always a great choice- make sure to ask for locally grown products, wherever you choose to shop.