I can’t believe that it has taken me this long to visit our local farmers’ market. We would talk about checking it out but, as with a lot of instances, life – and weekend baseball and soccer games – have gotten in the way.
After this weekend’s super fun time at Downtown West Palm Beach Farmers’ Market, I’ve gathered some shopping tips that will make your and my next visit to the farmers’ market even more enjoyable!
Comfortable Shoes
Depending on the farmers’ market, you may be walking quite a bit. I am thankful that I wore my comfy sneakers because it’s one less worry! I was able to walk up and down the streets like it was nothing.
Sunscreen
Regardless of the time of year, it is super important to apply sunscreen. I have to admit that I didn’t put as much of an emphasis on it when I lived in New York as when I moved to Florida. (I would also sunbathe in my backyard on Long Island slathered in baby oil, but that’s for a later article.)
Prepare for Weather
Pack a small umbrella because you don’t know when the skies will open. When we went on Saturday, the weather radar showed clear skies until 3:00 p.m. Within 20 minutes of arrival, we felt the first drops. 5 minutes of rain ensued, then clear skies. You never know…
Bring Bags!
We were so not prepared for the actual shopping portion of the farmers’ market. I noticed that the other, more prepared patrons brought with them:
- Reusable bags
- Baskets
- Rolling carts
to tote around their farmers’ market finds.
Fido Friendly
I am SO glad we decided to bring Stella along with us. Aside from the fact that it totally wore her out, it was a great lesson in crowd acclimation. There were so many pups enjoying the farmers’ market and Stella kissed every single one she came in close proximity to.
The vendors are super dog-friendly as well, offering bowls filled with fresh water, samples of their pet-friendly food, and more.
More Than Just Shopping
Most farmers’ markets are set on large expanses of land. Aside from the vendor locations, there are usually grassy areas to sit and enjoy the wares recently purchased AND perfect for the kids to run and exert some pent up energy!
We didn’t bring the boys this time, but are most definitely toting them along on the next visit. Aside from the open spaces, a lot of times there are oversized games set up (think Connect 4 on steroids, sports equipment around).
The Local Bounty
Can you honestly say that you know which local fruit and veggies are grown in your area? I learned SO much about what can and IS grown successfully in our area. The fruit and vegetables on display at the various stands peeked my interest and opened my eyes to what is out there.
We opted to purchase some of the local fares, to test out some new recipes, to expand our horizons when it comes to what is abundantly available to us.
I cannot wait to visit the farmers’ market this coming weekend, with our newfound knowledge (and harness for Stella as she loved to pull in every direction possible).
I’d love to hear of any tips you have to help make the next farmers’ market visit an even better success. Please check out my Amazon storefront for some great product recommendations!
Marie Phillips says
Farmers’ Markets are the best! Ours are done for the year (I live in Virginia), but can’t wait for them to start again in the spring.
Dana says
What’s funny, Marie, is that ours are just starting because of the super hot Florida summers!
Tara Pittman says
I love the tip of bringing your own bags. That helps the vendors save money.
Dana says
I agree! It also saves trees!
Nyxie says
Luckily most of the farmer’s markets here are indoors because we can’t rely on the weather. So, no need for sunscreen. But yes to everything else!
catherine santiago jose says
You definitely given us a great tips when visiting a farmer’s market, I agree that wearing a comfortable shoes will help you enjoy exploring that place.
Luna S says
Great tips! I like that you included to bring your own bags, a lot of people tend to forget to bring them.
Mommy Sigrid says
Oh absolutely, we should bring bags! WE should avoid the use of plastic bags so it’s best to bring our own to the market. I do that.
A says
I love going to our local farmer’s market. There’s always great local food and it’s affordable too!
Dana says
The affordability is amazing! I didn’t realize it until we went. Super fresh produce and amazing pricing!
Rikki Ridgeway says
I love the idea of bringing your own bags. I’m trying to be more eco-friendly, so that is definitely right up my alley.
Yeah Lifestyle says
Some great tips here especially the one about bringing bags as I find I always need extras when I go farmer’s market shopping
Susan1375 says
What a great dog friendly trip out. I wouldn’t think to bring my own bags so that is a great tip.
Cindy Nico says
Every time I read a post about a farmers market I wish we had one close to us. There are none that I know of anywhere around our neighborhood
Sushmita says
I am still exploring this new city I moved in to recently. I haven’t come across a farmer’s market yet. These are some simple practical tips. I love the farmer’s market for the local goodness!
Dani Flanders says
LOVE Farmers Markets. I don’t go to them very often, but should definitely try to as we head into the Winter and our own garden is done for the year 🙂 Not to mention a great way to get out of the house in these Wisconsin Winters 🙂
Dana says
I agree, Dani. I still can’t believe it took me this long to go to ours!
Olya Amanova says
Dana) you write my thoughts) I am on very friendly terms with farmers markets.
Themamicam says
What a great check list! Love the little car, that’s a must!
Dana says
It is a game-changer! You don’t have to carry everything and you can last longer walking through the market!
Cindy Ingalls says
I love a good Farmer’s Market. You can find such great produce while also supporting local farmers.
Tina Basu says
very good tips you have mentioned. I go to the farmers market sometimes and always carry my own bags with a trolley! The fresh produce is so amazing at farmer’s market!
Dana says
The fresh produce was the first thing that I go for, but there are also so many other vendors with amazing wares too! I think I need a bigger trolley and more bags 😉
Celebrate Woman Today says
The best foods and the freshest come from the Farmer’s Market. I love spending time there and discover something new, like soaps, local honey, and local crafts.
tweenselmom says
I rarely have time to go to the local farmer’s market but I agree that there are more variety and much cheaper produce in there.
Samar says
Thanks for the wonderful post about tips and tricks about getting the fresh ones.
Budget is also an important thing to consider.
Erik the Hungry Traveller says
I love farmers markets. There is always a lot you can find there.