Frequently Asked Questions

Where and What is the Holiday Market?

The Andover Holiday Market is at South Church, 41 Central Street, Andover, MA on Saturday, December 6th from 12 - 6. It is a single day event that serves as a fundraiser for the Andover Farmers Market. There is free street parking along Central Street and other nearby streets and parking in Town of Andover lots just a short distance away. The Holiday Market is held rain or shine. Visit our Holiday Market pages to learn more.

Who Operates the Andover Farmers Market?

The Andover Farmers Market is run by a team of mostly volunteers from the local community. It operates under the Social Outreach efforts of South Church in Andover, but is financially self-sufficient. South Church provides administrative and other support.

Are you near public transportation?

Yes, we are in walking distance from both the Andover Stop on the MBTA’s Haverhill Commuter Rail Line and the MVRTA’s bus stops in Andover.

Do you operate rain or shine?

Yes! We do not close for rain. We have only had to cancel once since 2020, following a microburst in September 2023 where much of Andover was without power and roads were impassable. If we close, we will make an announcement on social media. But please come visit us rain or shine!

Do your vendors accept credit cards?

Yes! It is at the discretion of each vendor, but most of our vendors accept a variety of different payment types. 

Do you accept SNAP?

Yes! Many of our vendors accept SNAP. We also offer a SNAP match program during the summer season, matching up to $25 weekly. Please see our Food Assistance page to learn more. 

Is your market dog friendly?

Yes, during the summer market (the Holiday Market does not allow pets). We love leashed, friendly dogs to visit the market and we equip the market with watering stations. We kindly ask you to pick up after your dogs.

Is your market kid friendly?

Yes! We have children’s programming every week from Music Hours, to activities hosted by the Market and our Community Partners, to our POP Club which gives children tokens to purchase their own fruits and vegetables from our five eligible farms (Farmer Dave’s, Gaouette, Liberty Hill, Pleasant Valley Gardens, and Essex County Mushroom Farm).

How do I become a vendor?

Please see our application on our Vendor page. Applications for the summer will be posted in mid-February.

How do I become a sponsor?

Please visit our Sponsor page.

What is a producer only market?

We ensure that all of our farmers, food vendors, and artisans make and sell their own products. We also carefully review our vendors to ensure that they comply with local and federal laws related to items including safety and copyright infringement.

Is there anything else to do near your market?

Yes! We are a short walk from downtown Andover which features lovely shops, restaurants, a public library, and many businesses. We are also within walking distance of the Phillips Academy Campus and a world famous, free, art museum, the Addison. 

Is there food to eat at your market?

Yes, many of our vendors have ready to eat food on site. Visit the Map each week on the Vendor page to see who is at the market. 

What is a Community Partner? 

Community Partners are nonprofits that tie to one or more of our five pillars that tie to our mission, Health, Build Community, Food Justice, Economic Development, and Environmental Sustainability. They showcase their organization at the market and assist with programming. To see if your organization might be a fit, email us at andoverfarmersmkt@gmail.com.

Are solicitors allowed at the market?

No. We do not allow solicitors or collection of signatures at the Market to ensure we provide a supportive environment for all. Any solicitors that try to access people attending AFM are not affiliated with the Market.

Why should I shop at a Farmers Market?

When you shop at a Farmers Market you stimulate the local economy by supporting small farmers, food producers, and artisans and keep money in the local community. You also help the environment by supporting farmland and limiting how far food travels to get from its source to you. You also help combat food insecurity in our community and you just might leave happier. People have far more positive social interactions at a local market than when they shop at large box stores.

Do you have events?

Each week we will have a theme, from celebrating Pollinator Week to Pride to National Farmers Market Week. We will also have contests where you can win market bucks! Visit our website and our social media pages for more information, or just come visit us at the market!