Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market Recognized as One of Nation’s Best Farmers Markets

FOLEY, AL- Newsweek announced today that the Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market (CAFFM) was first runner up for the 2025 Readers’ Choice Award for Best Farmers Market.
 
CAFFM beat out some of the largest markets in the country to nab the number two spot. Fifteen markets, including heavy hitters like Union Square Greenmarket in New York City and Pike Place Market in Seattle, were nominated. The public was able to vote for their favorite market daily from May 9 through June 5.
 
CAFFM was established in 2014 as a non-profit by the City of Foley. The market was created as a New Markets Tax Credit project, which allowed for further funding to be granted by third parties for a period of seven years. After that required period, CAFFM was moved under the City of Foley umbrella in 2022.
 
The market has flourished in the years it’s been open, winning numerous regional and national awards. CAFFM Market Manager Alescia Forland said the success is due to the support from customers, vendors, and government officials.
 
“We won this award because we have created the most beautiful family here at the Coastal Alabama Farmers & Fishermens Market,” Forland said. “It’s become a Saturday destination for loyal patrons buying from vendors who have become friends. A huge part of our ability to create this welcoming environment comes from both City of Foley leadership as well as patient guidance from the State of Alabama Farmers Market Authority.”
 
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said CAFFM was built to strengthen community ties and to see its continued success is a testament to its people.
 
“It’s certainly no surprise to me. We all know what a wonderful market we have,” Hellmich said. “Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market features the best of our region all in one place. Delicious seafood from local waters, produce grown in rich Alabama soil. But perhaps most importantly, it brings together such incredible people. We are blessed to be a part of a community that looks out for each other in so many ways. Some do it by buying local. Some do it by growing, catching, or creating something for their neighbors. We are honored to see CAFFM win this prestigious award, because it’s the result of us all coming together, and that’s just what Foley is at its core- a truly loving community.”
           
For more information on the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Award, contact Stephanie Donald at sdonald@cityoffoley.org.