In South Tampa, pedestrian-friendly farmers’ markets are flourishing. In these markets, there are a minimum of 50 vendors, including local groups, businesses and non-profit organizations.

One of these local markets is in Hyde Park Village. On the first Sunday of every month, people can enjoy live music, cooking demos and outdoor seating. Homemade, handmade, artistic and agricultural goods are available for purchase as well.

Among the organic coffees and baked foods, one man runs his business, Casa Truffle. He imports fresh truffles overnight from Italy.

“I usually attend the markets in Carrollwood, Hyde Park, Seminole Heights or St. Pete,” Nikki Jaffe, senior, said. “I buy all of my produce, flowers, headbands, clothing, jewelry, soap and even my hula hoop.”

Jaffe said the best part of these markets is that every product is a fair trade, sustainably and locally made.

“It’s so wonderful seeing how much they have grown in popularity over the past year,” Jaffe said.

Gilly Minnehan, sophomore, said that her favorite market was the one in Hyde Park. She thinks that it is a great way to spend a sunny morning and they have really great ice pops.

“Along with the trendy shops that stay open, I love the fresh produce that they have as well as the live music. It makes mornings fun,” Minnehan said.

Ybor City also hosts another large market every Saturday morning. This market sells fresh breads, gourmet food, herbs, plants, pet treats, cigars and more. During October to April, it opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 3 p.m.

Local vendor, Gary Parke, sells strawberries at five different markets each week. A third generation Plant City strawberry farmer, he has a hydro farm, which enables him to grow these berries year round.

“I like working with people. Farming is something I have always wanted to do but not the commercial kind. I like customer interaction and my heart is in this business,” Parke, said.

Lutz Nutz sells different types of tree nuts like cashews, almonds and hazelnuts.

“I like building relationships with both customers and other vendors. I have been selling here [Ybor Market] since 2006 and it’s been a great experience,” the owner of Lutz Nutz said.

“When I had just started out selling there was a tropical storm. The market wasn’t canceled and we even made sales,” the owner said.