While spring has officially arrived, for some it takes more than just the falling petals of the Bradford Pear trees or the overzealous green grass on Monument Avenue to know that the season has changed. Some people have to taste spring. Fresh strawberries, blackberries, green beans and countless other fruits and vegetables announce with their presence, that spring is actually here.

You don't have to look very far to find such freshness. Whatever your address, there is sure to be a farmers market within driving or walking distance. There you can find the freshest produce, fruits, meats, cheeses and breads, but these markets go beyond the basics, and offer handmade desserts, drinks, crafts and clothing.

With the addition of two new markets this season, there are more chances than ever for community members, farmers and artists to and enjoy each other's company and products. Checkout any or all of the local markets that Richmond has to offer.

Saturdays:

South of the James Market
Meets: Forest Hill Park, at the end of New Kent Avenue and 42nd Street, in Shelter 2
Runs: May 3 through October 25
Hours: 8 a.m. to noon

17th Street Farmers' Market

Meets: Shockoe Bottom at Main and 17 streets.
Runs: April 19 through December 6    
Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Lakeside Farmers Market
Meets: Lakeside Towne Center, 6116 Lakeside Ave

Runs:  May 3 through November 21
Hours: 8 a.m. to noon and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Ashland Farmer's Market
Meets: Duncan Street behind Town Hall
Runs: May 3 through October 25
Hours: 9 a.m. to noon

The Goochland Farmers Market
Meets: Grace Episcopal Church, 2955 River Road, Goochland

Runs: May 3 through October 25
Hours: 8 a.m. to noon

  
Sundays:

17th Street Farmers' Market
Meets: Shockoe Bottom at Main and 17 streets.
Runs: April 20 through December 7
Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesdays:
   

Byrd House Market
Meets: Oregon Hill, at the corner of Idlewood Ave. and S. Linden Street
Runs: May 6 through October 28    
Hours: 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Wednesdays:

Lakeside Farmers Market
Meets: Lakeside Towne Center, 6116 Lakeside Ave

Runs: May 3 through November 21
Hours: 8 a.m. to noon and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Ellwood Thompson's Farmers Market

Meets: Ellwood Thompsons' parking lot, under the billboards.
Runs: May 14 through October 25   

Hours: 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursdays:

17th Street Farmers' Market

Meets: Shockoe Bottom at Main and 17 streets.

Runs: April 20 through December 7
Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.