What would we do without our farmers markets? Organic produce, freshly baked goods, and a true sense of community are just a few things that you'll find in these open-air markets. Locating your nearest farmers market shouldn't be too difficult since Virginia has many to choose from. We're truly grateful for the farmers, artisans, and families that provide their produce. There's no better way to say thank you than to learn about what they do and buy local. Each of these markets showcases Virginia's finest foods, straight from the source and unique to its region. Food has its way of bringing people together, and farm-friendly food is no exception. Now that spring has arrived, the following markets are a must visit.

1. Ashland Farmers Market

Saturday mornings at the Ashland Farmers market will bring you the freshest produce from Hanover. Fruits, veggies, honey, herbs...you name it. The market is open from May-November and is a convenient 15 miles from Richmond. Location: 101 Thompson Street.

2. Charlottesville City Market

Charlottesville's Water Street parking lot completely transforms come Saturday morning. In addition to all the lovely produce, you can expect to find some handmade crafts, organic bagels, donuts, and fresh roasted coffee. It's the perfect way to start the weekend. The market runs April-November. Location: 100 Water St.

3. Covington Farmers Market

The Covington farmers market has a relatively new location that was built by Virginia Tech architectural students. The market has everything you'd dream of, and then some. You can even view cooking demonstrations from a mobile kitchen unit. The months of operation are May-October. Location: 134 West Main Street.

4. Harrisonburg Farmers Market

The Harrisonburg market is year round and showcases the finest of local produce. Artisan breads, free-range meats and eggs, and dairy products galore. You'll be able to snack on some ready-to-eat treats while you shop, too. Location: Turner Pavilion, Municipal Parking Lot, 228 South Liberty Street.

5. Abingdon Farmers Market

You'll want to check out what's been growing in the fine southwest Virginia soil. The Abingdon Farmers Market offers all the local goodies you could hope for, including artisan baked goods and local wine. The market is open on Tuesday afternoons and Saturday mornings, from April-November. Location: Corner of Remsburg Drive & Cummings Street.

6. Downtown South Boston Farmers Market

There are very few things worth waking up for at 7:30 AM on a Saturday morning, but the Downtown South Boston Farmers Market might be an exception. The smell of fresh baked goods will have you awake in no time. The market is open April-December. Location: 300 Broad Street.

7. South of the James Farmers Market

This year round market in Forest Hill Park is truly an event. Music, produce stands, and food trucks create a perfect Saturday morning for all ages. Location: 42nd Street and New Kent Rd.

8. Lexington Farmers Market

Since 2001, the Lexington Farmers Market has been open every third Wednesday morning (April-November) to display the finest produce, eggs, and crafts made from farm friendly materials. Location: McCrum's Parking Lot,

Jefferson Street.

9. Blacksburg Farmers Market

Located in downtown Blacksburg, this farmers market has it all: farm products, baked goods, and organic produce all from within a 50-mile radius. This market is part of the Montgomery Artisan Trail and is open all year-round (times/frequency will vary according to the month). Location: Corner of Roanoke & Draper St.

10. Irvington Farmers Market

Irvington's open air market is old fashioned in the best kind of way. Farm to table foods, crafts, and flowers are just some of the treasures found here. With live music to add to the mix, it's no wonder why this market was rated as Best Farmers Market in eastern Virginia. Location: 98 King Carter Dr.

11. Portsmouth Olde Towne Farmers Market

At the Portsmouth Olde Town Farmers Market, you can find essentially anything you'd have on your grocery list. In addition to the traditional produce, meats, and dairy-products, the market offers scones, brownies, seafood, jellies, sauces, and even hand-crafted soaps. Location: 400 High Street.

12. Old Beach Farmers Market

For more than 30 years, the Virginia Beach Farmers Market has featured its fresh and local produce. The market is open year round and also has a butcher, organic grocer, and restaurant. Location: 3640 Dam Neck Road.

13. Williamsburg Farmers Market

In the heart of Colonial Williamsburg among the flowerbeds is an open-air market complete with homemade soups and freshly cut flowers. The Williamsburg Farmers Market is an interactive one; chefs provide cooking demonstrations and local musicians add to the entertainment. The market operates during March-December. Location: 402 W. Duke of Gloucester St.

14. Old Town Farmers Market (Alexandria)

The Old Town Farmers Market may just be one of the oldest in the country. Since 1733, farmers and artists have been using the area to sell their products. This gorgeous market is open year-long on Saturday mornings. Location: Market Square/City Hall

300 Block of King Street.

So get out there and support your local farmers! With beautiful produce, delicious treats, and a little entertainment, you'll be planning your next visit in no time.