Planning for the Farmer’s Market

Where do you find yourself shopping for locally grown produce? Your local farmer’s market, of course! Farmers’ markets are home to the freshest local produce, packed with fiber, nutrients, and flavor to enhance your meals. Whether you’re a weekly market regular or a first-timer, shopping at farmers’ markets is a great way to support local growers, eat healthy, and find inspiration for your next meal.

If you’re new to the experience or want to make your next trip more efficient and enjoyable, check out these five simple tips for shopping success .

Tip #1: Planning

Before heading out, make a list of the ingredients or recipes you’ll need for the week. A little planning goes a long way! Equally important is to bring multiple payment options, such as cash, cards, and or mobile payments like Venmo or Cash App, since many markets are primarily cash-based. Stopping by your bank or an ATM beforehand is a smart idea. –

Tip #2: Timing

Once you’ve planned your trip and gathered your payment, consider what time you’ll arrive. At farmers’ markets, the early bird truly gets the worm. Arriving early gives you the best selection of produce. However, if you prefer to shop later in the day, you might score some end-of-day deals when farmers would rather sell produce at a discount than let it go to waste. –

Tip #3: Questions

The vendor is the expert when it comes to the produce you’re buying. Don’t hesitate to ask how the produce was grown, what pesticides (if any) were used, and how far they traveled to get to the market. – – –

Tip #4: Bulk

Do you buy in bulk at places like Costco or Sam’s Club? The same strategy can apply to farmers’ markets. Ask vendors if they offer bulk pricing. For example, you might request a bushel (larger quantity of produce) of peaches if you’re preparing for your annual family canning event. Also, ask about “seconds”—produce with minor blemishes or bruises. These are perfect for cooking, baking, or canning, and often come at a reduced price.

Tip #5: Local

Whether it’s your local farmers market, a family-owned grocery store, or a neighborhood restaurant, shopping local supports positive economic outcomes, promotes procurement of unique products, and fosters a strong sense of community. Farmers’ markets are vital to local economies—shopping there is truly a win-win. –

Bonus Tip: Check beforehand to see if you’re eligible for farmers’ market coupons through programs like your State’s Department of Aging or the WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program.

Utilize these tips next time you visit your local farmer’s market or produce stand to make the most of your shopping experience!

Skye Odelehr | skye.odelehr@hcsgcorp.com

“I enjoy being a RDN with HCSG because I get to talk about food every day, build relationships with the residents, and work in a team which includes staff from every department in the facility as well as other dietitians at HCSG.”

I completed my Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics with a concentration in Sports Nutrition from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville in 2023. I enjoy shopping at local thrift stores for clothes and household items, trying new restaurants, and experimenting with new TikTok recipes.