Farmer's Markets 101

Although I wouldn't call my farmer's market experience 'extensive', I certainly love the ones I've patronized. Many times, you are not only finding great local produce, but you can find unique gifts and businesses of all varieties. Click HERE for a listing of state-wide farmer's markets in Colorado. There is also a list HERE of Tri-County farmer's markets (Jefferson, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties, I think???)

photo by Simon Howden at Free Digital Photos

Here are just a few tips from my own experience. Please post if you have other practical suggestions for those who are new to Farmer's Market shopping.

• Arriving early, especially in the heat of summer, is a good way to go. However, you may find that vendors will make a deal if you wait until the end of the day. 

• Be sure to bring your own bags and some kind of wagon if you'll be purchasing larger quantities or something like melons. 

• In a world where we used plastic to pay for almost every purchase, I think it's also reasonable to remind you that farmer's markets are typically a CASH ONLY event. For this reason, some vendors will also try to round to the nearest dollar so it helps to have smaller bills and even some quarters.

I know some of my readers are not in Colorado (Thank you, thank you, thank you!!). If you are feeling up to it, post a link here to a listing of Farmer's Markets in your state!