Kerry’s 3 Best Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ markets are a far cry from what they once were. Before they were simple get-togethers borne out of necessity where farmers’ could trade their livestock and earn a living. Today they’re a bit more sophisticated than that. And they’re more accessible to folks who don’t have a farming background which is great news for anyone who loves tasty, organic food and good craic. Kerry unsurprisingly has many farmers’ markets for you to enjoy and here’s three of the best for you to check out.
1. Killarney Natural Food Market
Where better to start than good ol’ Killarney? The Killarney Natural Food Market was launched in summer 2013 and proved to be a major hit with tourists and locals alike. It’s on every Friday from 12pm to 5pm in the Outlet Centre. It’s not really a farmers’ market in the traditional sense as you want see many sows and bonnamhs roaming around the shopping centre but there is plenty of delicious prganic food and lustrous treats to whet your appetite. There’s a wide variety of foods from Belgian waffles to homemade ice cream and from locally produced sausages to organic marmalades. And best of all it’s indoors and it’s in Killarney so you only need stroll over there when the feeling takes you.
2. Castleisland Farmers’ Market
If you’re looking for something a little bit more rustic and traditional then look no further than Castleisland Farmers’ Market. Live poultry in addition to savoury delights are available here and there’s also a fine choice of seafood on offer if that’s your thing. The market is weekly event taking place every Thursday and it begins at 9am and ends at 2pm. So it’s one for the early risers. Castleisland itself is a small town located halfway between Killarney and Tralee. It’s very easy to find. Head out the Tralee road and follow the signs! Oh and you can’t miss the market as it takes place in the middle of the main street.
3. Milltown Organic Store and Food Market
Now here’s a farmers’ market with a difference. Launched 14 years ago, this food market has gone from local secret to one of the most popular farmers’ markets in the country. Not only does it attract scores of farmers and cooks from across the local hinterland to sell their goods but it also has a unique ambiance and atmosphere compared to other markets. It’s housed in an old, redeveloped church which gives it a sort of mystic quality. It is also more than just a market as it often welcomes live musicians to play while the market is on and has an arts table which is perfect for any little kids who may tire of browsing foodstuff easily. The main emphasis however is of course on the food on offer here and it is second to none. From local vegetables to middle eastern foods, it’s got the lot. It’s even got its own website which you can check out here – http://www.milltownmarket.com/index.html. Milltown is a small village located about 12 miles from Killarney town. Here’s some directions on google map on how to get there – Direction to Milltown. The website will tell you how to find the church though that shouldn’t be difficult as Milltown is not every big! Oh and it all kicks off at 10am every Saturday and finishes at 2pm.
