Prepare for Halloween at These Tuscaloosa Farmer’s Markets

As the peak season slowly passes and farmer's markets begin to wind down for the year, now is the time to visit one of the local markets around Tuscaloosa to help you get prepared for Halloween.

From pumpkins to arts and crafts, farmer's markets showcase some of the best local products that Tuscaloosa has to offer. With a growing trend to buy local, these places provide you the opportunity to do just that!

The biggest market in the area is the Tuscaloosa River Market which sits on the banks of the Black Warrior River. Located at 1900 Jack Warner Parkway, the market is open every Tuesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. The market commonly has fresh produce, grass fed or grain fed beef, locally raised Berkshire pork, farm raised shrimp, jams, jellies, eggs, baked goods, fine cheeses, and artisan crafts.

In just its second year, the Tuscaloosa River Market will be a great place to find all of the seasonal items you'd associate with Halloween. Some of the festivities hosted last year included pumpkin painting, a pumpkin pie contest, and a costume contest. Information for this year's events haven't been released yet, but check out their Facebook page for the latest.

If Tuesday or Saturday doesn't work for you, the market run by The University of Alabama might fit your needs. Homegrown Alabama is led by students at the Capstone and "seeks to educate students about the value of local produce, as well as to foster partnerships between local farmers and the University of Alabama." It's open every Thursday from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. and is located at Canterbury Chapel on Hackberry Lane between Bryant Drive and University Blvd.

It lacks the overall size and variety of the River Market, but Homegrown Alabama has plenty to choose from. It, too, celebrates the season with the 'Fall Festival' on October 3. Pick from a large selection of pumpkins while partaking in the cake walk. There will also be kids' activities for the little ones.

So whether you're looking for the perfect pumpkin to carve, pumpkin-flavored foods, or seasonal festivities to get you in the mood for Halloween, Tuscaloosa's two farmer's markets should be a part of your plans.