To our Market Community,
Like you, we have been watching the events of recent weeks unfold with both a strong measure of encouragement and sincere heartache. As America seems poised for a long-overdue national conversation on race and the injustices facing our black communities, we have been asking ourselves what to do as individuals and as a collective to better serve our farmers market community. While none of us have all the answers, we do know that nothing will change without honest self-examination, open dialogue, and hearts ready to listen.

Food systems work is inherently community work, and our market has always been a reflection of the staff and patrons that make it up. While we have often been eager to share the positive aspects that come with that - too often we have ceased to shine a light on the unconscious biases and at times outright prejudices that can creep in. As an organization led by white employees with mostly white vendors, we are on our own journey to dismantle racism within ourselves, our organization, and our work. We know that we have a long way to go. As we move forward, we look forward to more conversations about how farmers market organizations can do our part to fight racism, support broader efforts, and hold each other accountable. We must do our part to ensure that farmers markets, our food system, and our communities are safe, just, and inclusive spaces for everyone. There is no food justice without racial justice. 

We grieve the inhumane murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade, and countless others victimized by senseless acts of violence. We condemn racism in all its forms and while we hope for a day when our country is free of bigotry - we recognize and welcome each of our roles in bringing that change.

It is with this spirit of love that we open the market to our community. ​

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Mission & Goals

Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market was started in April 2008 by Farmers of Orange, a state non-profit organization created for local farmers by local farmers.  All of our farmers and artisans live within 60 miles of Chapel Hill, NC and bring fresh quality produce, value-added farm products, and crafts to market year-round. 

The market is vendor run and operated by our market manager.  Every dollar spent goes directly to our farmers and vendors.  All items are grown, fished, or created by our farmers and artisans. 

Our Mission 
The Farmers of Orange mission is to create and maintain farmers’ markets that support farmers and the larger community. Farmers of Orange will create, expand and enhance the economic strength and viability of farmers in Orange County and the piedmont of North Carolina while contributing to the education and health of county residents.

Our Goals
• Create and increase opportunities for farmers to sell their products directly to consumers
• Create and increase consumers’ opportunities to buy local products directly from farmers
• Bring together families, neighbors, visitors and local food producers to create a sense of community and social gathering
• Establish vibrant markets that make our market locations a destination for tourists and visitors
• Provide a vehicle to educate the community on the nutritional, environmental, and economic value of buying local, sustainably-produced farm products.