Visit Your Local Farmer's Market

Farmers' markets are one of the oldest forms of direct marketing by small farmers. A great way to get outside, eat some good food, buy some fresh produce, and meet new people is to check out your local weekend farmer's market. Summer is the season that hosts the most farmer's markets. You can find a farmer's market near you using this map!

1. Help support local farmers & the local economy

Purchasing local produce from the farmers themselves saves farmers the cost of packaging and middleman distributors. This boosts the local economy by giving the local working class a boost rather than spendings money at the supermarket.

2. Purchase better & fresher produce

Produce at the farmer's market is as fresh as it gets. A freshness you can taste. Local farmers provide organic produce that doesn't contain the GMO and pesticides commonly found in produce at the supermarket... and for a cheaper price!

3. Help save the environment

Every time you visit the farmer's market you are lessening your carbon footprint. The waste associated with packaging and shipping produce is diminished when buying directly from the seller. The agricultural industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. Buying local produce helps alleviate that pollution.

4. Save some money!

High-end taste for an affordable price. Produce at the farmers market is organic for a cheaper price. Buy more for less. You could purchase a weeks worth of food for you and your family and still save.

5. You'll learn a lot

Visiting the Farmer's Market will show you what is in season in your area and what your community is capable of growing.

6. Get outside with your family

Many people suffer from a lack of vitamin D- so get outside and spend time with your family by walking around and exploring the farmer's market.

7. Find unique gifts & quirky items

Local vendors who make jewelry and other fun gift items usually attend the farmer's market. If you are looking for the perfect homemade gift or simply want something nice for yourself, the farmer's market is a great place to search.

8. Discover the spice of life: variety

Who knew that there were more colors of eggs than just white and brown! At the farmer's market, you will find eggs of blue and orange colors. You will see a rainbow of produce that are colors you didn't even know were possible.

9. Connect with the community, Meet local vendors.

Meet new people in your community and local vendors and farmers who you could purchase from in the future. Many farmers will even allow you to tour their farm. You can get a first-hand account of how certain produce is prepared.

10. Looking to adopt?

Many farmers markets include pet adoptions. If you are looking for a new furry friend, you may find the perfect fit at the farmer's market!

11. A nutritional upgrade

Buying more fruit and vegetables will ensure that you eat a more nutrient rich (and colorful) diet! Check out these 58 Summer Farmer's Market Recipes to find the perfect meal and needed ingredients for your farmer's market adventure!

12. Provenance

You know exactly where the food you are buying comes from and who is growing it when you visit the farmer's market.

13. Try something new.

Whether that be a new food or simply visiting the farmer's market for the first time- time is always worth spending when you are having fun and broadening your horizons.