MURFREESBORO, TN - The holiday season is arriving early at the Rutherford County Farmers Market, where Santa Claus himself will make a special appearance this Friday, December 19, from 8 to 10 a.m. Families are invited to stop by Lane Agri-Park, 315 John R. Rice Boulevard, for a free visit with Santa and a chance to decorate cookies at the market’s festive cookie table. Anyone who purchases a cookie from vendors will be able to add their own creative touch with icing and sprinkles, making the morning a sweet celebration for all ages.

Farmers Market Manager Hannah Bleam encourages residents to join in the fun. “Come enjoy holiday activities, local vendors, and community cheer. The market will be open from 8 a.m. until noon, offering a lively mix of seasonal goods and holiday spirit."

This Friday’s event is especially important because the market will close for the next two weeks, on December 26 and January 2, in observance of the holidays. After the break, the Winter-Spring Farmers Market resumes Friday, January 9, 2026, continuing every Friday through April from 8 a.m. to noon.

The Winter-Spring season is a new expansion designed to keep fresh, local food available year-round. Shoppers can expect a curated selection of seasonal produce, herbs, mushrooms, meats, baked goods, canned goods, preserves, and other farm-fresh items. While the vendor list is smaller than the summer market, the offerings are carefully chosen to highlight the best of Rutherford County’s growers and makers.

Beyond the festive fun, the Winter-Spring market represents a deeper commitment to community resilience. It ensures that residents don’t have to wait until summer to enjoy locally sourced products, while also supporting farmers with consistent income opportunities during the colder months. The market strengthens Murfreesboro’s agricultural base, encourages residents to shop local, and provides nutritious food options when grocery shelves often lean toward imports.

Though weather may affect weekly availability, the market’s mission remains clear: to connect neighbors with local agriculture and foster community spirit. With Santa’s visit kicking off the season, the Rutherford County Farmers Market is proving that holiday joy and hometown sustainability go hand in hand. Make it a point to be there this Friday between 8:00 - 10:00 a.m., and bring your "list for the big man too".