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The Hidden Benefits of Spending Time at Farmers’ Markets
I enjoy bonding with my daughter at the local farmers’ market
“What makes the farmers market such a special place is that you’re actually creating community around food.” — Bryant Terry
Every Saturday morning, my daughter and I eagerly look forward to visiting our local farmers’ market. It is a terrific way to start the weekend in a fun and relaxing environment.
Checking Out Different Local Farmers’ Markets
It all began last year when we were looking for something safe and enjoyable to do on weekends during the ongoing pandemic. We stumbled upon this particular farmers’ market advertisement on Facebook, so we decided to explore it.
At the time, it was much safer to shop and interact with others outdoors rather than indoors. Furthermore, this market was located only a short distance from home.
We enjoyed strolling around and browsing the outdoor stalls, all while remaining masked and socially distanced from others. Later on, as the pandemic began to subside, it became something that we continued to do because we came to find it truly appealing.
We relished visiting this particular farmers’ market so much that we decided to go one step further and explore all the local ones in the area.
Be that as it may, this particular market remained our favorite as it offered a unique shopping experience by combining the charm of an old-fashioned country shop with the refinement of a modern lifestyle.



Our Experience at the Local Farmer’s Market
After feeling so cooped up for months, there is something exhilarating about basking in the sunshine and fresh air at an outdoor market on a beautiful morning.
The colorful varieties of a plethora of produce are enchanting, not to mention the heavenly aroma of fresh flowers.
Shopping at farmers’ markets creates a sense of community, as it supports local farmers and producers. It feels lovely to be a part of that community and interact with these friendly farmers, ranchers, and bakers, who all follow health protocols.
We delight in trying out the myriad samples from the various stalls. Some of the offerings include local honey, hot coffee, hand-made crafts, flowers, baked goods, personal care products, and ready-made food.
There are usually a couple of well-known food trucks parked in the area. They even have a miniature petting zoo on certain weekends.
The market has live music and entertainment, creating a lively community atmosphere to engage people of all ages. There are never any crowds, no matter what time of day we go.
We have the opportunity to experience the authentic culture of people who originate from different countries. We have developed a nice rapport with the Brazilian baker and the Venezuelan food truck vendor.
My son and his girlfriend always ask us to purchase the Argentinian alfajores for them. My daughter loves the arepas and tamales from the Venezuelan food truck. My husband is a fan of their empanadas. My personal favorites are the brigadeiros — a chocolate truffle-like bon-bon — from the Brazilian baker.


Reasons to Shop at a Local Farmer’s Market
Farmers’ markets have fruits and vegetables at the peak of the growing season, which means produce is at its freshest with the best taste.
The food is also typically grown near where you live, not many miles away or in another country. Hence, you are also reducing your carbon footprint.
Shopping at farmers’ markets also supports your local farmers and keeps the money you spend on food closer to your neighborhood. It comforts me to know that my dollars directly support the local economy, which is grappling with financial difficulties due to the pandemic.
Final Thoughts
Meeting your local community at the farmers’ market is an excellent way to feel connected to the world around you.
The 22nd Annual National Farmers Market Week is August 1–7, 2021. It is a great time to check out a farmers’ market if you have not done so already. Markets around the country are having special events to celebrate fresh local food and the great farmers and producers who make it all possible.
What are some of the items you enjoy buying at farmers’ markets?
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