Kathy's Farmer's Market Tips

Shop like a local. Cook like you mean it. Leave with more than just radishes.

There’s something special about wandering a farmers market on a weekend morning. The smell of cinnamon rolls in the air. Kids running wild with juice mustaches. You, in your favorite sunglasses, pretending you're just browsing—when you know good and well you're leaving with five kinds of tomatoes and a bundle of herbs you’ll Google later.

Whether you’re a seasoned market pro or just dipping your toes into the local produce scene, here are my go-to tips for making it count—with style, snacks, and a little edible adventure along the way.

☀️ 1. Get There Early

Want the good stuff? Show up before the crowd. That means snagging the prettiest flowers, the still warm sourdough, or those farm eggs that vanish faster than you can say “shakshuka.”

🧺 2. Bring a Tote (or Three)

Sure, your tote says “Support Local”—but will it hold a watermelon, mushrooms, and a surprise cinnamon twist? Probably not. Stack your bags like a pro, and leave room for a few impulse buys (because they will happen).

🧊 3. Cooler in the Car = You’re Winning at Life

Planning to make a few stops after the market? A cooler in the trunk keeps your goods fresh and gives you permission to buy that goat cheese you’re eyeing. You know you want it.

🥐 4. Grab Breakfast While You’re There

Coffee brewed by someone who cares. Flaky croissants. Hand Pies that make you question every sad drive-thru morning you’ve ever had. Markets are made for morning fuel-ups—so take a lap and treat yourself.

👩‍🍳 5. Try Something New (Just One Thing!)

Pick one thing you’ve never cooked with—kohlrabi, lion’s mane mushrooms, that weird squash that looks like it time-traveled from 1802—and plan a meal around it. That’s the real adventure here. Ask the farmer how to cook it, and get creative in the kitchen. No pressure, just play.

💬 6. Ask Questions

What’s in season? How do you store those carrots? Is that a hot or sweet pepper? Don’t be shy—farmers love to talk about their harvest. A quick convo might just unlock a tip or recipe you didn’t know you needed.

🌽 7. Shop with the Seasons

Cooking what’s in season = better flavor, less waste, and meals that actually make sense. Summer? Think tomatoes, peaches, basil. Fall? Squash, apples and comfort food vibes. Your future dinner plans will thank you.

✨ 8. Show Some Love

A kind word, a tag on Instagram, or even just a genuine smile goes a long way. These folks are up at sunrise, rain or shine, doing what they love—and keeping your fridge full of real food.

Farmer’s Market = Life Hack

So next weekend, grab your sunnies, your tote, and your appetite. Pick a new ingredient to play with. Say hi to someone behind the table. And remember, it’s not just grocery shopping—it’s a tiny celebration of community, creativity, and damn good food.