Craving delicious and nutritious food that’s seasonal, fresh and as local as possible? If so, you’re in for a real treat! Enjoy strolling at your local farmers market on sunny summer days and browse through the many stands of the tastiest garden fresh goods picked at the peak of freshness and sometimes harvested that very morning.
Feel good about supporting local farmers, boosting the economy and getting connected in a welcoming community setting!
OPT FOR ORGANIC OR LOCAL OR BOTH
Shop locally, support local farmers and enjoy an abundance of organic options. Farmers markets typically avoid genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the produce is usually ripe, in season and not picked prematurely. Organic growers forgo using the chemicals, synthetic pesticides, fertilizers and antibiotics that conventional growers often use.
Local produce is just that – it comes from nearby sources. According to the USDA, more than 85% of farmers market vendors sell produce within 50 miles of their location. Since local produce is often picked when ripe and sold that very day, you can reduce food waste by buying fresh produce that lasts longer than food that’s weary and wilted from traveling long distances on a truck.
TASTE THE DIFFERENCE
There is nothing like a vine ripe juicy German Johnson or heirloom tomato fresh from a farmers market. Add a little salt, or oil and vinegar for absolute perfection! And what variety! Farmers market tomatoes come in all shapes and sizes and in a rainbow of colors, ranging from red to orange, to yellow, to green, all brimming with fresh picked flavor.
FUN FEATURES OF FARMERS MARKETS
Farmers markets are not just for your favorite fruit and vegetables – you’ll also find a wonderful selection of local honey, free range eggs, farm fresh cut flowers, meats, cheeses, jams, soaps, dairy, bread and local crafts as well. Special events are planned throughout the summer and fall, including live music and cooking demonstrations. And you can’t miss those tasty free samples of tomato slices, cheeses, and other foods you can try before you buy. It’s a win-win!
EXCELLENT ECONOMY
Shopping at a farmers market promotes local job growth, helps fuel economic growth and supports farmers in their quest to produce more farm fresh goods to meet demand. Farmers are provided with income opportunities without the additional costs of shipping, storage, and inventory control. Farmers, artisans and entrepreneurs don’t have to invest in a middleman for distribution and, therefore, have an ideal place to incubate their business, to develop and test products, to elicit feedback and conduct sales.
FACE-TO-FACE WITH FARMERS
Farmers market shoppers can enjoy an especially satisfying consumer experience and customized service when they develop face-to-face interactions and build relationships with farmers. Farmers are usually happy to talk about how their produce is grown and to discuss their sustainable growing practices. Plus, who could be better at providing inspiration, tips and prized recipes for enjoying all the ripe, nutritious and delicious bounty of the season’s abundant harvest!
TRY CSA (COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE)
CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) allows you to experience a variety of fresh, in-season produce from local farms that are harvested and shared with you on a weekly or biweekly basis. It’s a great way to diversify your produce and support local agriculture. Seek out an opportunity to explore options for your next meals, plus enjoy and benefit from a farm-to-table experience.
From a down-to-earth environment to social aspects of shopping at farmers markets, there are bountiful benefits for you and your loved ones, as well as benefits for farmers and the economy, so go ahead and support a robust local economy. Shop savvy and buy directly from farmers in your area while boosting connectivity to your community!
FARMERS MARKETS IN WINSTON-SALEM, NC:
- Bethania Mill Farmers Market – 5455 Bethania Road
- Cobblestone Market Farmers Market – Old Salem – Corner of West and Salt Streets
- Downtown City Market –6th and Cherry Streets
- Fairgrounds Farmers Market (Dixie Classic Farmers Market) – 421 27thSt/University Parkway
- Krankie’s Farmers Market – 211 E. Third Street
- Miracle Grounds Farm Store at Crossnore Children’s Home (formerly The Children’s Home) – 1001 Reynolda Road
