Red Stick Farmers Market, Baton Rouge

Red Stick Farmers Market is a weekly outdoor market where local farmers and small producers sell their goods directly to visitors. It started in 1996 to support local farming and improve access to fresh food. The market is run by BREADA, a nonprofit that works with local farmers and food producers. The name “Red Stick” comes from a red-stained cypress pole noted by French explorers marking tribal boundaries.

At the market, you can find seasonal fruits and vegetables that are often picked just before sale. There are also baked goods, dairy products, honey, jams, and ready-to-eat food. Some vendors sell handmade items like soaps and candles. The selection changes during the year, depending on what is in season, so each visit can feel a bit different.

The market is also a place to learn. Farmers often share how they grow their food and offer simple cooking tips. Programs also help more people access fresh food. The market runs every Saturday, even in bad weather, with vendors moving under cover when it rains. Some days include live music or cooking demonstrations.