Farmers' markets in Virginia expected to offer more local meats this season

by Jeff Ishee

Virginia’s farmers’ markets trace their roots to the earliest days of the Commonwealth, when town squares served as hubs for trading produce, livestock, and handmade goods. By the 18th and 19th centuries, cities like Alexandria, Lynchburg, and Roanoke had established some of the nation’s oldest continuously operating markets, anchoring local commerce and community life.

The Leesburg Farmers' Market has a strict 125‑mile vendor radius — All vendors must be located within 125 miles of Leesburg, ensuring hyper‑local sourcing and strong regional ties. Image credit - VA Farm Bureau

The modern revival of farmers’ markets accelerated in the 1990s as Virginians sought fresh foods, stronger ties to local farms, and alternatives to industrial supply chains. This movement mirrored national trends, with markets growing from roughly 100 nationwide in 1960 to more than 3,000 by the year 2000. In Virginia, the expansion has been especially strong, supported by consumer demand, agritourism, and programs encouraging direct-to-consumer sales.

A directory of farmers' markets in Virginia can be found here>>

One of the leading trends witnessed over the past few years has been the availability of locally produced meats such as beef, pork, poultry, and lamb. Industry observers say there are two logical reasons for this trend - trust and transparency. Farmers’ markets in Virginia offer direct relationships with producers. Shoppers can ask how animals were raised, fed, and processed, something difficult to do in grocery stores.

Image credit - Blue Cedar Beef

One thing market patrons can expect to see more of in 2026 will be “Virginia Verified Beef” products. The new program, launched in 2025, demonstrates to consumers that labeled beef products have been certified as bred, born, raised, and processed in the state. "Virginia Verified Beef" will be part of the Virginia Verified Meat brand. Dozens of Virginia livestock producers have signed onto the new program, including Triple C Angus in Abingdon; Fleenor Farms in Bristol; MAM Farms in Buchanan; Studley Farms in Mechanicsville; Turnagain Farms in Ruther Glenn; Grazelen Farm in New Hope; Blue Cedar Beef in Mount Solon; and Woodstock Wagyu in Woodstock. For a complete list of certified producers, click here>>

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will administer the Virginia Verified Meat program, working with authorized industry partners like the Virginia Cattlemen’s Association to provide certification. Virginia Verified Meat will include qualifying cattle, goats, sheep, or swine.

Today, Virginia hosts approximately 385 farmers’ markets, according to recent statewide business listings. These markets range from small community gatherings at vacant parking lots to large, year‑round operations in Richmond, Virginia Beach, and the Shenandoah Valley. They provide vital income for growers, offer access to fresh food in rural and urban areas, and serve as cultural gathering places that preserve the state’s agricultural heritage.

A recent survey by the North American Meat Institute indicates that about 98% of U.S. households purchase meat. Shoppers can expect to see more local meats at Virginia farmers’ markets this season.