A farmers' market is a place or event at which local farmers sell their home-grown goods to the public. A farmers' market may be a regular daily, weekly, or monthly event, and most are held outdoors. In addition to produce, one many find such items as prepared foods, decorative plants, honey, homemade cheese and preserves, and handmade crafts at a farmers' market. Typically, each vendor at a farmer's market operates a stall or booth.
Shopping at a farmers' market offers many advantages to the consumer. Because the produce is grown locally, it is often fresher than what one may find at a supermarket. Heirloom produce and other unique food items may only be available at a farmers' market. Visiting a farmers' market in a city one is visiting as a tourist offers one the opportunity to experience local flavor and specialties. Prices are not necessarily higher or lower than those at the supermarket, but without a middleman, the consumer knows that all of his or her money is going to the farmer and supporting the local economy.
The farmers' market also has ecological benefits. Many of the food items offered there are grown organically or humanely, and the relatively short distance that vendors must travel to sell their goods cuts down on fuel use and air pollution. Buying produce that is not mass produced also supports biological diversity and sustainable farming practices.
Many towns have regular farmers' markets, even such urban centers as Hollywood, California and Manhattan, New York. By supplementing your weekly shopping by visiting a local farmers' market, you can both support your community and add some unusual items to your cupboard. Prepared foods are often available for lunch, and live entertainment is sometimes provided as well. Why not spend a fun afternoon at a farmers' market in your hometown or next time you go on vacation?
