Dekalb Farmers Market

DeKalb Farmers Market | Glen Kauffmann

You may see the words “farmers market” and think of an outdoor spot where you can wander stalls to shop for fresh produce and flowers. Your Dekalb Farmers Market has tons of produce, flowers, baked goods, spices, seafood… and the list goes on. But it’s all inside a cavernous warehouse. So, no matter the weather, you can spend hours shopping and exploring. Here are five reasons to visit Dekalb Farmers Market:

Travel the World through Food

Where else in Atlanta can you encounter more than 450 types of international fruits and vegetables? The selection here is beyond what you’ve likely seen in any store, ever. There are more than 400 types of cheese from around the globe, household gadgets from across oceans, and an entire wall of exotic spices. We’re just scratching the surface here, but practically every country is represented through something edible or usable in the kitchen.

Eat a Multi-Cultural Meal

The on-site restaurant offers freshly made foods, with a lot of emphasis on vegetable dishes. Daily specials on the buffet might include stews, baked fish, meat-stuffed pastries and more. Since it’s open every day of the week from 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., a visit can always include a lunch or dinner. With so many choices, even picky eaters can find a few flavors to excite them.

Take a Tour

Guided tours of the expansive market can be scheduled for groups of 5 to 25, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays at 10 a.m. Bring your playgroup or neighbors for a behind-the-scenes look at where various items come from, learn more about international foods, and be wowed by what comes in and out of the market in a day. Tours last about 45 minutes and they’re free.

Visit the Fish

The seafood department is the definition of the word “fresh.” More than 450 types of whole fish and shellfish are on display, including live tanks with catfish, lobster and crabs. Watching the fish and crustaceans swimming and waving is fascinating for all, especially the kids.

Go on a Country Scavenger Hunt

Beyond the colorful fruits, veggies, and decadent desserts, the ceilings are covered with flags from 184 countries. Make a game out of finding particular flags and see if you can meet an employee who comes from the country your kids are hunting. Market staff members come from many different countries, and their name, country of origin and languages spoken can be found on their name tags!

Tips: Wear a jacket or sweater. It’s extremely cold inside, and not just in the refrigerated sections! Only checks, cash and debit cards are accepted. Get your picks sliced, cleaned, or filleted for you if you’re not sure how you’re going to do it at home. The staff is happy to help with unfamiliar items.

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