Calling all locavores--and anyone else who enjoys eating fresh, locally grown food acquired directly from the source.
It's National Farmers Market Week in the United States. Time to grab a couple of reusable shopping bags and head over to your favorite farmers market to sample the wares, haggle over prices, and indulge in some good old back-to-the-land summer fun.
Some farmers markets are simple affairs, with just a few local farmers selling produce at hastily erected tables or off the back of their trucks. Others are more elaborate, with scores of farmers and other merchants offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to local honey and wine or various crafts. Some feature live music, while others offer only the music of laughter and good conversation.
Chances are you already know of a good farmers market or two in your area. If you need help finding one, however, or if you want to expand your knowledge of other markets near your home, the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) maintains the National Farmers Market Directory, which is a list of farmers markets nationwide.
You can search and filter the AMS directory by location (just enter your zip code and a distance of anywhere from five to 200 miles), market name (or partial name), products available and type of payment accepted.
Winter will be here before you know it--a season when most farmers markets are closed and finding local produce becomes more challenging--so don't miss the chance to enjoy the local bounty that's available now and through early autumn.
Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
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Comments
Good idea- not only will you be doing yourself a favor, but also helping out American farmers who feed not only our own 300 million people, but another 200million around the world. (Contrary to common misconception, 99% of American farms are small and family owned.) BTW- if you’re interested in buying meat in quantity (qtr, half or full carcass) direct from the farmer, just contact your nearest meat locker- they’ll be able to put you on the right track. Huge difference in quality compared to feed lot/ store-bought stuff.