With spring turning into summer in {Town}, It's time to embrace the freshness of the season by eating local. From pick-your-own farms where you can create unforgettable memories (and great photos!) with your little ones, to CSAs offering a bounty of seasonal delights and local farmers markets ... there are plenty of ways to eat fresh in {Town}!
By choosing locally grown produce, you're not only treating your taste buds, but also supporting sustainable agriculture and the hardworking farmers in the {Town} area.
Discover where you can find locally grown fruits, vegetables, and more in {Town} to bring home to your family:
 Sergii Petroshchuk | Canva |
🍓 Pick-Your-Own Farms in the Merrimack Valley: Family Fun All Season Long
If you’re looking for a fun, fresh-air family activity, nothing beats a day at a pick-your-own farm. The Merrimack Valley is filled with incredible local farms where kids can explore, taste, and experience where their food comes from—while making lasting memories along the way.
From strawberries and blueberries to apples and flowers, here are some of the best pick-your-own destinations in and around Georgetown, Groveland, Boxford, Middleton, Methuen, Andover, North Andover, Lawrence, and Haverhill.
🍓 Smolak Farms – North Andover
A staple in the Merrimack Valley, Smolak Farms offers one of the most well-rounded farm experiences for families.
Pick Your Own: Strawberries, blueberries, peaches, apples, pumpkins
Why Families Love It:
- Playground and farm animals
- Bakery with cider donuts and treats
- Seasonal events and hayrides
This is a perfect “full day” destination where kids can pick, play, and snack all in one place.
🫐 Cider Hill Farm – Amesbury (Great for Georgetown & Groveland)
A favorite for families in Georgetown and Groveland, Cider Hill Farm is known for its beautiful setting and variety of crops.
Pick Your Own: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, apples, flowers
Why Families Love It:
- Stunning views and well-organized fields
- Apple cider donuts and farm store
- Frequent family-friendly events
🍏 Boston Hill Farm – North Andover
A true local gem with gorgeous views overlooking the Merrimack Valley.
👉 https://www.bostonhillfarm.com
Pick Your Own: Blueberries, raspberries, apples, pumpkins
Why Families Love It:
- Relaxed, less crowded feel
- On-site farm stand with fresh produce and baked goods
- Beautiful scenery
🍎 Brookdale Farm – Haverhill
If you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back picking experience, Brookdale Farm is a hidden treasure.
👉 https://www.brookdalefarm.com
Pick Your Own: Apples, pumpkins
Why Families Love It:
- Easy, family-friendly layout
- Less crowded than larger farms
- Great for younger kids
🌸 Nunan’s Farm – Georgetown
A charming local spot right in the Merrimack Valley.
Pick Your Own: Seasonal flowers, pumpkins
Why Families Love It:
- Smaller, relaxed environment
- Great introduction to picking for little ones
- Beautiful garden center to explore
🍓 Parlee Farms – Tyngsboro (Popular Valley Destination)
Worth the short drive, Parlee Farms is one of the most popular pick-your-own destinations in the region.
Pick Your Own: Strawberries, blueberries, cherries, peaches, apples, pumpkins
Why Families Love It:
- Exceptionally clean and organized fields
- No pesticides used on berries
- Famous cider donuts and ice cream
🌽 Brooksby Farm – Peabody (Close to Methuen & Lawrence)
A great option for families in Methuen and Lawrence.
👉 https://www.peabody-ma.gov/brooksbyfarm/
Pick Your Own: Apples, pumpkins
Why Families Love It:
- Farm animals and walking trails
- Easy access and parking
- Relaxed, educational experience
🌼 Tips for Planning Your Visit
✔ Check each farm’s website or social media for crop availability
✔ Arrive early for the best picking conditions
✔ Wear comfortable shoes (fields can be muddy!)
✔ Bring water, sunscreen, and a camera 📸
✔ Plan extra time—most farms have treats, shops, and play areas
Know of any other PYO farms in {Town} that we should add to our list? Let us know at {Email Address}.
 Rita E. | Canva |
Local CSAs in {Town}
Support local farmers and enjoy a regular supply of fresh, seasonal produce by joining a CSA in {Town}. CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. Here are some options to consider:
🌱 Cider Hill Farm – Amesbury (Great for Georgetown & Groveland)
Cider Hill Farm offers a flexible and popular CSA program with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables grown right on their beautiful Amesbury farm.
Why Families Love It:
- Weekly shares with fruits, veggies, and add-ons
- Pick-your-own options often available for members
- Farm store, bakery, and family events
🥬 Farmer Dave’s – Dracut (Serves Entire Merrimack Valley)
One of the largest and most well-known CSA programs in the region, Farmer Dave’s offers multiple share sizes and convenient pickup locations across the Merrimack Valley.
Why Families Love It:
- Lots of pickup locations (easy for busy families!)
- Customizable shares and add-ons
- Wide variety of produce throughout the season
🌽 Boston Hill Farm – North Andover
👉 https://www.bostonhillfarm.com
A local favorite, Boston Hill Farm offers a CSA program featuring fresh, seasonal produce grown right in North Andover.
Why Families Love It:
- Beautiful farm setting
- High-quality, locally grown vegetables
- Farm stand access for additional purchases
🥕 Marini Farm – Ipswich (Convenient for Boxford & Middleton)
Marini Farm offers a classic farm share experience with a strong focus on fresh vegetables and family-friendly farm activities.
Why Families Love It:
- Consistent, high-quality produce
- Easy pickup process
- Seasonal farm events and activities
🥦 Brooksby Farm – Peabody (Close to Methuen & Lawrence)
👉 https://www.peabody-ma.gov/brooksbyfarm/
Run by the City of Peabody, Brooksby Farm offers a local, community-focused CSA option.
Why Families Love It:
- Accessible and affordable
- Family-friendly environment with animals and trails
- Educational opportunity for kids
🍅 Nunan’s Farm – Georgetown
While best known as a garden center, Nunan’s offers seasonal produce and local farm partnerships that may include CSA-style offerings or farm shares.
Why Families Love It:
- Local and convenient
- Great for supplementing a CSA with flowers and plants
- Friendly, small-scale atmosphere
🥒 The Food Project – North Shore (Serves Lawrence & Surrounding Communities)
👉 https://www.thefoodproject.org
A nonprofit focused on youth development and sustainable agriculture, The Food Project offers CSA shares and works closely with communities like Lawrence.
Why Families Love It:
- Mission-driven and community-focused
- Supports youth leadership and local food systems
- Fresh, sustainably grown produce
Do you have a favorite CSA that you'd like to recommend? Share the details with us at {Email Address}.
 Ruthie Prasil | Canva |
Farmers Markets in {Town}
{Town}'s farmers markets are a great place to spend a {morning/evening, as relevant} browsing fresh produce, locally-produced artisanal goods, and much more. Here's where to find farmer's markets in {Town}:
🌽 Andover Farmers Market
Andover Town Common
👉 https://andoverfarmersmarket.com
One of the most popular markets in the area, the Andover Farmers Market is a vibrant weekly event right on the Town Common.
Why Families Love It:
- Wide variety of vendors (produce, baked goods, prepared foods)
- Live music and community atmosphere
- Great location for a picnic or playtime nearby
🥬 North Andover Farmers Market
North Andover Town Common
👉 https://northandoverfarmersmarket.org
A true community favorite, this market offers fresh produce, local vendors, and a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Highlights:
- Local farms and specialty vendors
- Kids activities and events
- Easy parking and central location
🍓 Haverhill Farmers Market
Bradford Common (and winter locations)
👉 https://haverhillfarmersmarket.org
Serving the Haverhill community year-round, this market is a great spot to find fresh, local food and unique goods.
Why Go:
- Seasonal produce and handmade items
- Rotating vendors and food trucks
- Strong community feel
🥕 Methuen Farmers Market
The Loop / Downtown Methuen
👉 https://www.cityofmethuen.net
Methuen’s farmers market brings together local vendors and families for a convenient and fun shopping experience.
What You’ll Find:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Baked goods and specialty foods
- Easy access shopping for busy families
🌻 Boxford Farmers Market
Boxford Town Hall / West Village
👉 https://boxfordma.gov
A charming, smaller market with a true New England feel.
Why Families Love It:
- Relaxed atmosphere
- High-quality local produce
- Great stop before or after exploring Boxford trails
🍎 Middleton Farmers Market
Middleton Town Green
👉 https://middletonma.gov
A cozy community market perfect for a quick stop or weekly routine.
Highlights:
- Friendly vendors
- Seasonal fruits, veggies, and flowers
- Great for young families
🌼 Georgetown Farmers Market
Georgetown Town Center
👉 https://georgetownma.gov
A wonderful local option for Georgetown families looking to shop fresh and support small businesses.
Why Visit:
- Convenient location
- Local produce and handmade goods
- Community-focused vibe
🫐 Lawrence Farmers Market
Campagnone Common
👉 https://www.cityoflawrence.com
Lawrence’s farmers market offers a diverse selection of fresh foods and cultural flavors.
What Makes It Special:
- Multicultural food offerings
- Fresh produce and prepared foods
- Lively, welcoming environment
🌿 Groveland & Nearby Markets
While Groveland itself is small, it’s just minutes from several great markets including Haverhill, Georgetown, and Newburyport.
Families can easily visit multiple markets throughout the week to experience different vendors and offerings.
🌟 Tips for Visiting Farmers Markets with Kids
✔ Bring cash (some vendors are cash-only)
✔ Arrive early for the best selection
✔ Let kids pick out a fruit or treat
✔ Bring reusable bags
✔ Stay for music, snacks, or a picnic
🧺 Make It a Weekly Tradition
Farmers markets are more than just a place to shop—they’re a place to connect, explore, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season. Whether you're grabbing fresh veggies for dinner, treating the kids to something sweet, or just soaking in the sunshine, these local markets are a perfect family outing.
🥕 Support local, eat fresh, and enjoy everything the Merrimack Valley has to offer!
