Your Essential Farmers’ Market Guide

Favorite thing about the warmer weather? Probably the weekend trips to my local farmers’ market. There’s something about outdoor grocery shopping and an abundance of produce that adds freshness to my life.

With Spring in full bloom, and Summer right around the corner, I wanted to fill you guys in on 10 farmers’ market tips to prep for the exciting season ahead. Get ready for heirloom tomatoes bursting in flavor, thickly sliced artisan bread, and blueberries the color of the deep blue sea.

Monthly Fresh Produce

Spring.
Broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, snap peas, rhubarb, artichokes, oranges, lettuces, pineapple.

Summer.
Tomatoes, strawberries, apricots, blueberries, raspberries, okra, peppers, beans, figs, peaches, watermelon, cucumber, cherries.


10 of My Favorite Tips:

Turn this into a weekly tradition. This will cut back on grocery shopping, help with meal prep, and allow you to plan trips to several different markets.

Bring a friend! It’s always fun to go to the market with a friend or family member. It’s the perfect day date.

Check the forecast. A little rain won’t hurt — but a big storm may cancel the show. Make sure the weather hasn’t created any delays, and know if you should pack your umbrella for a nice Spring shower.

Get there early. I know, it’s the weekend and the last thing you want to do is get up early. But, most markets open around 9a,, and like they say, the early bird gets the worm.

BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag). I tote several reusable bags while grocery shopping. Not only are they reducing my carbon footprint, but they’re often bigger and fit more goodies inside.

Take Small Bills. Cash is key at the farmers’ market. Small bills eliminate the need to wipe out all of the vendors’ change, especially when you’re giving them $20 for a $4 carton of blueberries.  

Ask Questions! One of my favorite things about farmers’ markets is getting to know their vendors. Get to know their process, how they fell in love with what they do, and if they will be present next time. This will help you choose your favorites and reinforce your belief in their brand.

Treat Yourself. I love grabbing a bundle of wildflowers for myself every once in a while. Check out the local honey, fresh jams, banana breads, and sprigs of blooms. They may be a bit pricey, but how decadent, and what a special treat for a weekend morning.

Wash Well! When you get home, make sure to thoroughly wash the items you purchased. The produce you are getting is the freshest possible, meaning it was probably picked within the past few days. This means it may be home to a little bit more sand, dirt, or bugs — but no biggie, it’s worth it!

Store Appropriately. Because most of these fruits and veggies are organic, they won’t be pumped with chemicals to prolong their freshness. Do some research about how to store each item to lengthen its shelf-life.

+ What farmers’ market tips did I miss? What is your go-to item? Let us know in the comments!

Follow Madisyn on Instagram + check out her blog!

 

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I love farmer’s markets – they’re my favourite activities! Can’t get enough of the spring produce right now, and I can’t wait for summer! ❤️❤️

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com

5 years ago

Love this!

Lo
5 years ago

These pictures, these words! Thank you

5 years ago

Farmer markets are great! Often you’ll find cheaper (and healthier) options compared to the stores. Me and my family also really enjoy going to farmer markets.

Sarah Wilkins
https://travelranked.com