Nothing captures the spirit of summer quite like a thick slice of fresh, vine-ripened tomato on a hot-off-the-grill burger. The rich, juicy flavor of a homegrown tomato is worlds apart from the store-bought variety that is often picked before it’s ripe and shipped from miles away. The benefits of buying local produce go far beyond taste. Choosing locally grown food means enjoying fresher, more flavorful ingredients, supporting the local economy, and making a more sustainable choice for the environment.
With deep agricultural roots, Charles County is home to 371 working farms and over 47,000 acres of active farmland, offering an abundance of opportunities to buy fresh and local produce, especially during the peak of the growing season. For those who want to support local agriculture, connect with their community, and enjoy the freshest seasonal produce, Maryland Buy Local Week creates the perfect opportunity.
Maryland Buy Local Week returns this year from July 17 to July 27, inviting residents across the state to celebrate and support locally grown and made products. The Buy Local Challenge began in 2007 as a regional initiative through the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC). What started in Southern Maryland has since grown into a statewide movement in partnership with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. During this week, Marylanders are encouraged to take the pledge and commit to purchasing at least one local product each day. It’s a simple yet impactful way to eat well, support local farmers and producers, and strengthen Maryland’s agricultural community.
How Can I Participate?
Joining the Buy Local Challenge is an easy and delicious way to support Charles County’s agribusinesses. Support local farmers and producers by shopping at local farms, farm stores, farm stands, farmers' markets, wineries, grocers, and markets that carry locally sourced items. Whether it’s fresh vegetables, dairy, meats, baked goods, or even locally crafted beverages, there is a way for everyone to participate in the Buy Local Challenge.
Visit a Charles County Farmers Market
One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to buy local is by visiting a neighborhood farmers market. Charles County is home to three active farmers markets, each offering a wide variety of seasonal produce, artisan goods, and farm-fresh products:
- La Plata Farmers Market
- Talbot Street, La Plata on Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Waldorf Farmers Market
- 2935 Crain Highway, Waldorf on Saturdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Western Charles Farmers Market
- 6485 Indian Head Hwy, Indian Head on Sundays, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Explore Community Supported Agriculture
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs offer a way for residents to support local farmers year-round, not just during peak growing season. By subscribing to a farm-run CSA, participants opt to receive a weekly or monthly box filled with fresh, seasonal produce and, depending on the farm, other locally made goods. The model is simple, where a farmer offers a limited number of shares or memberships to the community, and subscribers purchase a membership in exchange for a regular supply of farm-fresh products throughout the season. It’s a win-win. Farmers gain a reliable income, and locals enjoy convenient access to healthy, locally grown food.
Visit a Pick-Your-Own Farm
Pick-Your-Own farms offer one of the most hands-on ways to experience local agriculture in Charles County. These farms invite families to walk the fields and harvest their own produce straight from the source. From strawberries and fresh-cut flowers in the spring and summer to apples and pumpkins in the fall, each visit offers something new to discover. It’s a meaningful way to support local farmers, enjoy the freshest possible food, and create lasting memories in Charles County.
Attend the Buy Local Challenge 2025 Celebration
On July 28, from 5 to 8 PM, the Buy Local Challenge 2025 Celebration invites community members to gather at Tettimer’s Produce at Rolling Acres Farm in Calvert County for an evening of local flavor and family fun.
This annual event brings together over 35 local vendors, each offering a taste of Maryland. From fresh produce and artisan goods to handmade crafts and local delicacies, the celebration showcases the diversity and quality of products grown and made locally.
Why Buy Local?
Buying local isn’t just about food, it’s about strengthening the community. Every purchase from a local farm or producer keeps dollars in the local economy, supports agricultural jobs, and helps preserve farmland. Plus, local products are often fresher, more flavorful, and produced with care.
So this July, take the challenge. Explore what Charles County farmers and artisans have to offer. You may discover a new favorite product or vendor while making a meaningful impact.
