Eating locally in Alabama is a delicious prospect. A wide range of produce is grown in the Yellowhammer State, which enjoys a wonderfully long growing season. Southern cooking specialties define local cuisine, and the Gulf Coast provides plenty of seafood. I've gathered together resources for exploring local foods in Alabama below. Know about something I haven't included? Tell us about it!
What's In Season In Alabama?
Photo © Molly Watson
Alabama's mild climate is great for local eaters. Satsuma oranges and bananas can be found at some markets along with the more predictable sweet potatoes, tomatoes, greens, beans, and okra. Find out what to expect when with this Alabama Seasonality Guide.
Alabama Farmers Markets & Farm Stands
Alabama image used with permission from: http://www.photoeverywhere.co.uk
Some Alabama farmers markets are open year-round, but most close between November and February. Be sure to check listings before heading out - Alabama Farmers Market Listings.
Whether you're new to farmers markets or an old hand, check these Farmers Market Shopping Tips for great ideas.
Alabama Food Festivals
Photo © Molly Watson
Alabama has scads of food festivals throughout the year, here is just a sampling of the biggest and most local foods-oriented:
- Alabama Blueberry Festival
- Alabama Butterbean Festival
- Catfish Festival in Scottsboro
- Alabama Crawfish Festival in Faunsdale
- Alabama Chicken & Egg Festival
- Alabama Okra Festival
- National Peanut Festival
- Alabama Pecan Festival
- National Shrimp Festival
- Baldwin County Strawberry Festival
- Slocomb Tomato Festival
Alabama Local Specialties
Photo © Molly Watson
Alabama, with a temperate climate and an active Gulf Coast, has many regional specialties and regional foods that make it a great eating state. Wild shrimp, crawfish, barbeque, and classic southern pickles are just some of the fabulous local foods that litter the state with deliciousness:
