Photo:  Lemmo Photography

I love heading to my local farmer’s market because not only can I great things to bring home to eat but I can find wonderful and delicious things to munch on as I shop. Many people only think of farmer’s markets, as a shopping place but honestly it is so much more. Sure you can get great produce and other items but the atmosphere is always a wonderful place to people watch and to try some yummy food. I love going to the farmer’s market on Sunday that is under the JFX. Check out some great tips for a farmer’s market experience, some pictures and video from the market under the JFX. To see a list of local Maryland farmer's markets click here.

The Chicago Tribune had a great story called "13 strategies for shopping a farmers market" by Monica Eng on May 13, 2009. I love farmers markets so I thought I would pass it along- besides the great food to take home to cook with you can always find great items to eat while there!

1. Tear out/print out a schedule of your local farmers markets and keep one copy on your fridge and one in your work bag so you can keep track of which days markets happen near your job, home or commute path.
2. Decide on your priorities -- minimal pesticides, organic, in-state farmers -- before you go so you can find the right market for you and ask the farmers the right questions.
3. Make a plan before you go based on how many nights you are going to be home to cook. "This way you know how much you need to shop and you don't end up wasting things," says Shelley Young.
4. Bring a cloth bag that has plenty of room and can hang over your shoulder. For frozen meat or delicate greens, consider an insulated bag. (I love my bags from Whole Foods and my insulated one from Trader Joe's)
5. Get to the market early if you want the best pick of the market.
6. Don't go expecting cheap food. "This is not a place to go for bargains necessarily," said Young. "But I think it's worth it for the quality and the freshness."
7. If you have time, walk the market once through before you purchase so you can get an overview of the offerings.
8. "Get to know your farmer to establish that relationship and let them know about your household needs for produce so they know which areas to expand," said Reis-Miller.
9. Don't be afraid to ask the farmers or even chefs you see at the market for recipes and tips on preparation.
10. Bring cash, "especially ones and $5 bills," Lycan said. "The farmers really appreciate that." Although a few vendors can take credit cards, you will be limiting your options.
11. If you have a favorite item -- such as sour cherries -- ask the farmers how they look this year and when they might be coming in so you can plan your pies, jams and canning parties accordingly.
12. Some farmers charge different prices at different farmers markets. It's true. See if your favorite farmer at an upscale market also sells in a less fancy part of town. Chances are the prices drop there.
13. Some markets sell non-local produce. If this is a concern, ask.

Citation:
Eng, Monica. "13 strategies for shopping a farmers market." Chicago Tribune 13 05 2009 Web.15 May 2009.