North Port Farmers’ and Craft Market

Why We Love It: Known for its top-notch produce offerings, the fairly new North Port Farmers’ and Craft Market is a paradise of farm-fresh food, crafts and live entertainment from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Saturday. Expect wild-caught seafood, local honey, prepared meals, plants, flowers, desserts, accessories and even handmade canine treats for accompanying pups. There are more than 15 onsite market vendors that cater to North Port’s population of about 57,000 residents. The burgeoning city is drawing visitors who wish to sample the produce cultivated by the farmers and growers that own large masses of land in this part of South Sarasota County. It is not uncommon to find a plethora of handpicked herbs at the market, along with homemade trinkets that exemplify the laid-back lifestyle that North Port offers. Get to know the people who make up the area—the ones who are keeping the community-centric vibe going by peddling their original wares.