Visiting Hub City Farmer’s Market in 498 Howard St, Spartanburg, SC 29303 has become one of my favorite Saturday traditions for experiencing authentic food justice and community empowerment in Upstate South Carolina. This mission-driven market captures the essence of food equity movement, combining local produce, artisan goods, and educational programs all in one nonprofit-operated location at Northside Harvest Park. Whether you’re a Spartanburg local or a visitor exploring socially impactful markets, this destination offers genuine connections to sustainable agriculture and food access initiatives. It’s more than a market it’s part of a larger food justice mission operated by Hub City Roots that evolved from a small gathering in 2003 into a year-round, multi-program initiative. If you love supporting food equity and discovering fresh local produce with educational opportunities, this Howard Street destination should be at the top of your list.
Hub City Farmer’s Market Schedule
- Address: 498 Howard St, Spartanburg, SC 29303
- Contact Number: (864) 585-0905
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 8 AM–12 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Parking, Tickets & Transportation
Parking at Hub City Farmer’s Market is straightforward with free parking available next to the market at Northside Harvest Park for convenient Saturday shopping. The Howard Street location provides covered access that operates rain or shine, making comfortable shopping possible in any weather. Since the Saturday market runs from April to December with 8 AM to 12 PM hours, arriving by 9 AM ensures peak produce selection and fewer lines. The market welcomes leashed, well-behaved dogs and accepts EBT/SNAP with Market Match program that doubles produce dollars. Entry is completely free and the nonprofit status ensures every purchase supports food ecosystem investments beyond individual vendors.
Famous Vendor Information
One of the reasons Hub City Farmer’s Market stands out is its nonprofit commitment to making healthy, local food accessible through strict vendor guidelines for sourcing, sustainability, and quality. The market features organic greens, root vegetables, heirloom tomatoes, melons, fresh breads, pastries, kombucha, granola, free-range eggs, goat cheese, honey, and handmade soaps from carefully curated local farmers and artisans. Their programs extend beyond Saturday sales through Mobile Market serving underserved neighborhoods, Urban Farm Project providing on-site education in growing and composting, youth programs in gardening and food literacy, plus live music and cultural events. For those looking to explore more local gems, our full guide on Carolina Farmers Markets highlights the best markets across both North and South Carolina.
Nearby Hotels
- Hampton Inn Spartanburg Downtown Modern accommodations with convenient access to Northside Harvest Park and downtown attractions.
- AC Hotel Spartanburg Contemporary hotel with proximity to Howard Street market and local food initiatives.
- Residence Inn Spartanburg Quality accommodations with easy access to community-focused markets and Upstate destinations.
Famous Shops and Stalls
- Farm Produce Section Organic greens, root vegetables, heirloom tomatoes, and seasonal offerings from local growers following sustainability guidelines.
- Artisan Goods Corner Fresh breads, pastries, kombucha, granola, nut butters, and specialty items from regional food artisans.
- Local Products Display Honey, herbal remedies, handmade soaps, coffee beans, and natural body care from small businesses.
Tips for First Timers
- Use SNAP/EBT benefits the market accepts benefits and offers Market Match to double your produce purchasing power.
- Arrive by 9 AM for peak produce selection and fewer lines during the four-hour Saturday window.
- Explore education programs Urban Farm Project, youth programs, and workshops offer learning beyond shopping.
- Check Mobile Market schedule the winter program continues serving communities when Saturday market closes seasonally.
- Consider volunteering Hub City Roots welcomes new vendors, educators, and volunteers year-round for program support.
Why Hub City Farmer’s Market is a Must-Visit
From my experience, Hub City Farmer’s Market isn’t just about buying groceries it’s about participating in authentic food justice movement and supporting community empowerment through sustainable agriculture. The combination of fresh local produce, educational programs, food equity initiatives, and nonprofit mission creates an environment where shopping becomes social action. It’s a perfect example of supporting local growers while addressing food access challenges through practical programs like SNAP matching and mobile markets. This market represents Spartanburg’s commitment to food justice, where community-powered energy and fresh food access combine to plant seeds of lasting change.
Instagram-worthy Market Moments
The vibrant Saturday market displays create inspiring photos that showcase Spartanburg’s food justice movement and community empowerment through local agriculture. I always capture shots of the educational programs and urban farm activities the hands-on learning and sustainability focus highlight mission-driven market culture. The diverse vendor offerings and cultural events offer perfect settings for documenting food equity in action. Another great market worth visiting is Landrum Farmers Market, offering a vibrant community vibe and fresh produce.
FAQs
Can I use EBT/SNAP at this market?
Yes! The market proudly accepts EBT/SNAP and offers Market Match program to double your produce dollars for increased food access.
Is the market open year-round?
The Saturday market runs from April to December. The Mobile Market operates on a different schedule and continues serving in winter.
Are pets allowed at the market?
Yes, leashed and well-behaved dogs are welcome at the market throughout Saturday hours.
Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there is free parking next to the market at Northside Harvest Park for convenient Saturday access.
How can I become a vendor or volunteer?
Reach out directly to Hub City Roots staff. They welcome new vendors, educators, and volunteers year-round for program participation.
Final Thoughts
Hub City Farmer’s Market at 498 Howard St is more than a shopping destination it’s a celebration of food justice, community empowerment, and sustainable agriculture that defines mission-driven farming in South Carolina. My visits here demonstrate how markets can serve broader purposes beyond commerce, offering fresh food access alongside education and equity programs. Whether you’re seeking local produce, learning opportunities, or simply supporting purposeful agriculture, this nonprofit market delivers social impact and quality.
