Experience a farmers market

I got a little out of control. Seriously, I couldn’t help myself.

Here’s what happened. I went to the farmers market to pick up squash. Just squash. It was going to be a quick grab and go trip. And here’s what happened.

Out of control, right? Well – at least I didn’t forget the squash!

I don’t know what it is. Something happens to me when I go to the farmers market. I love all the colors, the smells, discovering what’s new from week to week. I find it all so exciting! I know – weird. Or is it?

I thought about this for a moment. I don’t get nearly as excited when I purchase produce at a supermarket. Okay, maybe I get a little excited BUT I’m definitely more excited at a farmers market. A farmers market is a totally different experience – you’re outside, you’re surrounded by fresh produce, you’re interacting with the farmers. It’s just more fun!

Let’s talk a minute about why I think you should visit your local farmers market.

You’ll be eating what’s in season. Sure, it’s convenient to be able to buy tomatoes in the winter, but let’s face it, winter is not tomato season. Buying produce direct from the farmer ensures you are getting the freshest and tastiest available. In most cases, the produce was picked the day before or even that morning. Shopping from the farmers market reconnects you to the natural growing cycles of foods.

You’ll be more likely to try something new. Ever see a new fruit or vegetable that you want to try at the supermarket? You don’t buy it because you don’t know how it tastes or what to do with it. At a farmers market you can ask the farmer! A farmer knows their produce and will tell you anything you need to know. AND you can taste before you buy. Sometimes there are even food demonstrations with some of the seasonal foods available.

You’ll be supporting local agriculture. Most of the produce in supermarkets has travelled many, many miles to be there. Where did that winter tomato come from anyway? Buying local cuts the travel distance and saves energy while providing you that tasty and fresh produce. Buying local also financially benefits the farmer and your community to help build a strong local economy.

So – are you going to do it? Are you ready to visit your local farmers market? I hope so! Shopping at a farmers market is an experience! So try it! I think you’ll find that it will make shopping pleasurable rather than a chore.

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