One of my favorite things to do is shop for fruit and vegetables at my local farmers market. In fact, when I am at my brother’s house I visit the farm around the corner from him and purchase fresh eggs, blueberries, and so much more. I love the farmers market and will be the first to admit that I missed it last year. This year however, I am back and enjoying it just as much. Of course there is a trick to shopping at your local farmers market. Let me let you in on my tips.
Learn the Rules
Every single market is different so make sure you learn the rules of yours right off the bat. They are typically posed somewhere you can just ask. Some places may still have covid rules in place so be sure you know. For example there is a market in Greenville that I always want to go to. I didn’t get to last year because they had a strict get in and get what you need policy. I want to be able to enjoy it and take my time going through everything so I didn’t bother going. Hopefully this year is different and I can go enjoy it.
Know What is In Season
Shopping at a farmers market is not like going to the grocery store. Different things are available at different times of the year. A good rule of thumb is:
- Spring: Strawberries, asparagus, peas, rhubarb, arugula, radishes
- Summer: Tomatoes, corn, berries, stone fruits, hot peppers, zucchini
- Fall: Apples, pumpkins, leeks, eggplant, cranberries, greens
- Winter: Winter squash, root vegetables, garlic, cabbage, pears
Knowing this allows you to be flexible. I usually write out a little list or put one on my phone of things I want to look for but for the most part I let the market tell me what I want. I know that sounds crazy coming from me but I get caught up in the thrill of it all and just buy what feels right.
Bring Cash and Your Own Bags
Both of these are a must! A lot of the booths will accept debit or credit but there are plenty that won’t. Bringing cash also allows me to set a budget for myself. I use a crossbody purse so I can have everything within reach. I also bring my own bags since many of the booths won’t have any. Depending on the size of the market and who Ii am bringing with me, I also bring the stroller or a small folding wagon. Those bags can get heavy and it’s great to have something to put things in. Not to mention something the kids can ride in.
Walk Around First
If you are new to the market take a quick walk around first to get an idea of what all they offer. There is nothing worse than buying something quickly only to discover you like the same item in another booth better. Just get an overview and that will help you decide what booths you want to visit. Several vendors at the couple I visit regularly know me by name and will mention when they have specials or items I may be interested in. Take the time to build those relationships. You will be surprised by how much you will learn and the friendships you may get out of them.
Handle With Care
Handle every single piece of produce or other items with care when you pick them up. It doesn’t matter if it is the ugliest tomato you have ever seen. Remember that someone took the time to grow that for you to eat and enjoy. They put their sweat and tears into producing whatever it may be. Produce doesn’t have to be pretty to be good.
Some of the best produce I have ever had was on the ugly side. The farmers market is one of the things I love doing on Saturday mornings. I will go alone if I have to but many times I take one or both of the twins and we spend the morning getting things for the table for the week. We have one that always has fresh bread and a little place to get a bite to eat. It is our thing.
Do you shop at the farmers market? Do you have any tips different from the ones I shared? Please leave your thoughts in the comments.
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