It’s finally Springtime and while the Winter markets have been bustling for many months, in just two weeks the regular season market will officially resume. Fresh asparagus, peas, and strawberries are calling!
Strolling the Saturday Farmer’s market is a tradition for many Richmond families and if you haven’t yet claimed the market as part of your weekly routine here are ten reasons to check it out this year:
1. It’s a FREE morning out: The farmer’s market experience is for everyone. It doesn’t cost a thing to get in, you can stroll at your leisure in a lively and family-friendly atmosphere, with loads of interesting things to see and talk about with your kids. Fresh air, sunshine, good company. It’s fun for the whole family!
2. It’s an opportunity to learn about and engage with your local food chain: Do you want to know more about where your food comes from and how is it grown or raised? Support your family farms, your community, and protect the environment while you’re at it by buying fresh food from local businesses that value sustainable farming practices. Your family farmer can answer all your questions about their products, and they often have tips and tricks (even recipes!) to share for ways to keep and prepare the food you buy. If you’re looking for pastured, forested, or grass-fed animal products the Farmer’s market will become your one stop shop—I have yet to find a better selection all in one place.
3. Enjoy food tastings and samples: On any given day you and your kids may be be able to sample: yogurt, chocolate milk, pickles, fresh in-season veggies, charcuterie, goat cheese, cookies and other baked goods. It’s nice to be able to try before you buy, plus, you are sure to find something you really like!
4. Check out the food trucks: Grab a hot breakfast, coffee, or a box of sourdough doughnuts from one of many vendors and colorful food trucks. Take it to go or eat as you shop.
5. Bump into your neighbors, make some new friends: The market is a great place to rub elbows with your neighborhood friends and get to know the vendors and their products in a personal way.
6. Get up close and personal with the animals: Speaking of friends, don’t forget the two- and four-legged variety. The farmer’s market is pet-friendly so you will find dogs of all kinds on parade, and most Saturdays you can also see animals from the farm: a sheep, a calf, or a coop of chickens, and last week two baby goats with their mama—my own two kids were smitten.
7. Peruse local artisan and handmade gifts: Browse an incredible selection of goods from local artists and crafters of all kinds. In the market you can find artisan jewelry, candles, pottery, t-shirts, yarn, soaps, paintings, photography, artwork, upcycled goods and more!
8. Try something new: Take home a fruit, vegetable, or local product that you’ve never tried before. Use it as a jumping off point to explore a new recipe or regional preparation. Need ideas? Check out recipe finders like Yummly and search by ingredient.
9. Jive to live music: Who doesn’t love familiar songs and good vibes performed live? The kids can dance their hearts out and the festive ambiance will make you smile.
10. Oh yeah, and the farmer’s market accepts SNAP benefits: In addition to cash, many farmers markets now accept credit cards, SNAP benefits, and other nutrition benefits. For all the details on SNAP click here.
To find your nearest market, check out the Richmond Farmer’s Market Guide.
Curious about what’s in Season in Virginia right now? See this Produce Calendar.
