Without a doubt, going to farmer’s markets, are one of my favorite things to do. Hands down. Plus, my dogs appreciate the goodies I bring home. Esp when I find the homemade dog treats and they act like sweet little angels (sometimes). It’s a win-win.
FRESH PRODUCE. HOMEMADE GOODIES. FRESHLY MADE BAKED GOODNESS. HANDMADE JEWELRY.
Come on people!!! How can you pass that up?! (Hint: You can’t.)
Now, obviously some markets are better than others. I’ve been to a few throughout Virginia, South Carolina and North Carolina. Some were bigger, had more vendors, larger variety, better quality, etc. BUT even the ones that weren’t that great, were still pretty good! Why?? Because they all have little hidden gems that make it all worth while. At least that’s been my experience. I also just like to see the good in every little thing, so there’s that. Hah. And if you’re thinking “No Alyssa, this one that I went to was horrible!” Well then my response to that is: at least you got out, walked around, got a little exercise, maybe some good ole Vitamin D, saw a cute baby, had a decent conversation… the possibilities are endless! You did something. Find the positive in it! I promise you’ll be happier than just focusing on the negatives.
So. Without further ado, I put together a few simple tips + tricks for you for the next time you go! And then for the time after that, and the time after that, and the time aft– okay, okay you get it.
TIPS & TRICKS
- Get there early!
- Depending on which area you live in, and how busy your local farmer’s markets get, it’s always best to get there early. You’ll ensure yourself first dibs on all of the best products! This is especially important for those of you that look forward to the baked goods and treats. Anyone else love sweets?! Same! (I could feel the subtle head nods from here. I appreciate the honesty.)
- Bring your own bags!
- This is for a couple reasons. First, some farmer’s markets don’t provide any… and if you’re planning on getting a good bit, it’s much easier to carry your items in a reusable bag instead hoping that you don’t drop something along the way while you try to balance it all in your arms. Ya feel me? Secondly, it’s better for this beautiful planet! Majority of the market’s that I’ve been to have bags there for your convenience. Sadly, they’re plastic bags. I’m sure we’ve all heard of the movement and importance of getting away from plastic. Why use more if we don’t need to! Go green people. Bring your own bags. You can get some of the cutest ones for super cheap! I paid $1.99 for a few super cute ones. Plus, they last for a long time, they hold SO much more, and they’re easier/more comfortable to carry. 🙂 I also LOVE these reusable produce bags. They come in different sizes and are machine washable.
- Hunt for the better deals towards the end.
- Although this is going against #1 and getting there early, there are some positives to arriving late to the party! Or even staying until the very end I suppose. Although some markets last for long hours, so that may be unrealistic. Regardless, like I said, there’s an up side to being there right before they close. A lot of the vendors will mark down their prices because they want to get rid of the extra produce/products that they have leftover. They are also typically more open to offers, if given within reason.
Price wise, I feel that there are a lot of items at the farmer’s market that are cheaper than items in store. Not all, but a lot. From my own experience, here is a little comparison of farmer’s market prices vs. grocery store prices. Now obviously some items that I list below go on sale at grocery stores; I am listing them at the average, non-sale price that one may typically see.
Organic Blueberries — 2 pints for $5.00 vs. 1 pint for $4.99
Non-Toxic Laundry Detergent (32oz) — $5.00 vs. $7.99
Seedless Watermelon — $4.00 vs. $5.99
Organic Carrots (1lb) — $3.00 vs. $2.99
Fresh Flower Bouquet — $5.00 vs. $8.00-10.00
Overall, (and in my opinion) farmer’s markets are great for the small, local businesses. I love that I can ensure and know exactly where my money is going. Plus, like I stated above, the prices for the produce that they offer is competitive, if not better, than a lot of the grocery store produce that many typically buy. Anddd on top of all of that, not many farmers that sell at the markets use harsh pesticides, growth hormones, chemicals, etc. That is a HUGE plus in my book. And if you aren’t sure, don’t be afraid to ask them! I’ve found that they are usually honest about it.
Now, get out there and plan your next trip to the farmers market! And hopefully this was of some help and/or provided some knowledge to you to use on your next trip!
Do you guys have any other tips/tricks that you follow when shopping at the farmer’s market?? I’d love to hear them so please feel free to leave me some feedback in the comments!!