Farmers' Markets

Nothing rewards the waistline, wallet or wish for adventure better than a trip to a local Farmers' Market on a Saturday morning.

Once roadside stands among the corn stalks on a Midwestern highway, Farmers’ Markets have sprung up in nearly every major – and minor city -  in the U.S. Some are no-frills – the week’s bounty for sale to those who prefer that their produce doesn’t fly United. Others offer artisan crafts, livestock – even a garden gnome or two.

Not sure where to head for the freshest produce? Local Harvest and Farmersmarket.com have very complete listings of markets by city and state. And even if your town doesn’t host its own market,  Local Harvest offers online ordering options sorted by produce type.

Your first time to the market? Here are a few tips to get you started.

Bring the right supplies.
Cash: Most Farmers Markets are cash-only venues. Even if they aren't, the sellers will appreciate the ease of cash – especially if you have correct change. Squirrel away the week’s singles and quarters to use for your trip. Just think – that change will buy you tomorrow night’s dinner!

Reusable Bags: Stands often have recycled plastic bags that you can use, but a reusable bag is great for the environment and makes your bounty easier to manage. A nice touch is to bring your own recycled plastic bags to the market and offer them to your fellow shoppers or to the merchants.

A list: On your first trip to the market, it’s best to just roam and enjoy the bounty. On subsequent trips a list will save you from splurging on unnecessary goodies.

Ask questions.
In many cases the person selling the produce is the same person that planted the produce. Use the time of sale to learn more about how and from where the food was harvest, how it was grown and even ways to cook with it.

Shop early or late.
Shopping at the end of the day leads to the best deals, but shopping first thing in the morning leads to the best selection.

Map it out.
Meander into the back of the market for the best deals, farmers that don’t have to pay a premium for their location can  sell their wares at a lower price.

Bring the kids.
Make a day of it…and begin to teach your child to honor our land and the food it give us.