Farmers' Market at Poplar Grove

Farmers' Market at Poplar Grove is shaped by Poplar Grove Foundation Inc.’s mission of conservation, education, and preservation, with Executive Director Caroline C. Lewis carrying that mission through the historic site’s operations. In Wilmington, that makes this Wednesday market feel tied to the grounds around it rather than detached from them, with local businesses selling directly to consumers in a green space at Poplar Grove. The setting adds more than scenery: the market sits within the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor and shares its home with the manor house and other named site features across the property.

Why it matters locally

Poplar Grove’s OPEN AIR MARKET is built to help local businesses sell goods directly to consumers while giving shoppers a place to get to know their farmer, baker, and artisan maker. That direct-sales setup is only one part of its local role. The market operates on a historic site overseen by Poplar Grove Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 public charity, and the organization describes community support as essential to maintaining the buildings and grounds and keeping programs and events going year after year.

The site’s local connections extend beyond the market tents. Poplar Grove Foundation is under the stewardship of the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust, and the grounds work is coordinated with the Pender County Master Gardeners and the PG Gardening Club. That combination links shopping, preservation, and ongoing care for the property in one place.

What you'll find there

The market’s mix is described less by a fixed roster than by the kinds of direct relationships it creates on site. Poplar Grove frames the Wednesday market as a place to meet the people behind the goods while spending time on the historic grounds.

• -Meet local farmers selling their goods directly to consumers at the OPEN AIR MARKET.
• -Find bakers whose goods are part of the market’s direct-to-consumer lineup.
• -Browse artisan makers featured as part of the market’s local business mix.

During market hours, guided tours of the manor house run on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., with tickets available online or at the Open Air Market booth.

Know before you go

There are no restrooms on site, and dogs are not allowed, two details that can change how long you plan to stay and who comes along. For parking, enter at 10200 US HWY 17 using the flagpole and MAIN ENTRANCE sign rather than looking for a separate market lot. If you want to add a house tour to your visit, those Wednesday Back Parlor guided tours are limited to 18 people and require tickets; you can buy them online or at the Open Air Market booth.

Because the market is part of the larger Poplar Grove property, it helps to think of the visit as more than a quick stop. The site includes the Manor House, Smoke House, Kitchen Storage House & Herb Cellar, Tenant House, Blacksmith Shop, and Print Shop, all within the same historic setting.