30 Things to Sell at a Farmers Market (Food, Crafts and More)

• Soap and bath products (check labeling rules for cosmetics)

• Candles

• Pottery and ceramics

• Jewelry

• Crochet and knit items: see crochet crafts to make and sell

• Wood crafts: cutting boards, signs and coasters

• Tote and market bags

• Art prints and greeting cards

• Seasonal decor: see seasonal crafts to sell

Pet and Specialty Items

• Dog treats (pet food rules apply in many states)

• Pet bandanas and toys

• Beeswax wraps

• Kids' activity kits (check product safety rules for children's items)

What Sells in Each Season

• Spring: seedlings, herb pots, flowers, rhubarb and asparagus, Easter and Mother's Day gifts.

• Summer: berries, tomatoes, corn, cut flowers, lemonade (with permits), sunscreen-free bug balms and soaps.

• Fall: apples, squash, pumpkins, pies, jams, candles, wreaths and fall decor.

• Winter markets: baked goods, preserves, soaps, candles and holiday gifts.

Rotate a few seasonal items into a steady core product so regulars always find something new.

How to Choose the Right Market

Not every market suits every product. Before applying:

1. Visit as a shopper. Count the crowd, note what sells out, and look for gaps.

2. Ask the manager about foot traffic, vendor mix and whether your product category is full.

3. Check the rules on what vendors may sell; some markets are producer-only.

4. Start with one market and add a second only when you can supply both.

Packaging and Labels

Good packaging sells and protects you:

• Label food with what your state's cottage food law requires, which often includes ingredients, allergens and a statement that it was made in a home kitchen.

• Label soap and cosmetics accurately and avoid medical claims.

• Use simple branded stickers or tags so buyers can find you again.

• Keep packaging easy to carry; market shoppers are juggling bags.

How to Price for a Farmers Market

Price = materials + (hours × your hourly rate) + booth fee share + packaging + payment processing

Divide your booth fee across the number of items you expect to sell. If you'd need to sell 200 items to cover the booth, rethink your product mix or price.

Round prices make cash sales easier, and bundles ("3 for") raise average sales.

Booth Tips for First-Time Vendors

• Make it visible from a distance: a clear sign with what you sell and prices.

• Use height: crates and shelves draw eyes better than a flat table.

• Offer samples where your market and permits allow.

• Take cards and digital payments, plus cash. Many shoppers carry no cash.

• Bring weights for your tent, water, change, bags and a chair.

• Collect contacts: an email sign-up or social handle turns one sale into repeat customers.

Craft Business Ideas From Home

A farmers market booth is a great way to test a craft business from home. Sell in person to learn what customers love, then expand online. Our guides to how to sell on Etsy and crafts that make money cover the next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sells best at a farmers market?

Fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, plants and handmade items like soap and candles tend to sell well. The best sellers fit your market's shoppers and season.

Do I need a permit to sell at a farmers market?

Often, yes. Requirements depend on what you sell and your state: cottage food rules, health permits for some foods, a sales tax permit, and the market's own vendor application.

How much does a farmers market booth cost?

Each market sets its own fees, usually per day or per season. Ask your market manager before applying.

Can I sell homemade food at a farmers market?

In many states, yes, for certain low-risk foods under cottage food laws. Rules on which foods, labeling and sales limits vary by state.

The Bottom Line

A farmers market booth is a low-cost way to start selling locally. Check the rules first, pick a few products you make well, price for every cost, and use your booth to build repeat customers. More ideas in our profitable hobbies list.