By Ned Steele
From pink pineapples to shark tooth necklaces filled with Siesta Beach sand, the Siesta Key Farmers Market offers a wide range of goods every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Located on Ocean Boulevard in the heart of the village next to Beach Bazaar, the market features about 15 to 20 rotating vendors and operates year-round. Organizers describe it as a smaller, artisan-focused alternative to larger regional markets. New offerings this year include stone crab claws, fig jam, charcuterie, natural skin care products and a new bakery stand.
The pink pineapple is an occasional highlight at TJ Produce, which also stocks seasonal fruits such as honeybell oranges. Jackie Baulick, visiting from New York’s Finger Lakes region, said she and her husband, Bob, make a point of visiting local markets when they travel.
“We can’t get these at home. They’re very sweet and delicious,” she said of the oranges.
Market manager Mike Crider, who also sells Tunisian towels, robes and wraps at his Fouta Spa stand, said the market’s appeal lies in its personal atmosphere.
“People don’t have a lot of face-to-face experiences anymore,” Crider said.
While tourists make up much of the winter crowd, local residents stop by regularly for bread, coffee and specialty items.
Siesta Key resident Kevin Mechigian recently visited Sisters Botanicals, which sells hemp-based products for pain relief and sleep support, including pet treats. Mechigian said he purchases CBD-based treats to help calm his 1-year-old puppy, Largo.
“They take the edge off her,” he said.
Visitors Steve and Betty Cunningham of Illinois said they return to the market each year during their stay on Siesta Key.
“Bracelets, soap, earrings and soon some lotion,” Betty Cunningham said, describing their purchases. “Too much.”
Among the newer vendors is DBTB Juice Bar and Bakery, offering sourdough breads, muffins, ciabatta and baguettes. Co-owner Devinne Whittaker said she was drawn to the market’s smaller size and limited vendor overlap.
“Some markets are just saturated,” she said.
Jennifer Brown, who operates Apotheca Brown Soaps and Sundries with her husband, Steve, said the market’s atmosphere keeps vendors and shoppers coming back.
“It’s a laid-back feel,” she said. “Everyone is happy and friendly all the time.”
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