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Research your vendors -

Many farmers' markets have a presence on social media and appear on websites. Some also publish newsletters. They'll often post info about what kind of vendors are attending a farmers' market, plus other helpful tips and advice. 

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Research your vendors -

If you like to plan ahead, write down a list of the must-visit vendors at your market. This is especially helpful if you're going to a popular venue where vendors tend to sell out of produce early on. 

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Start with a walkabout before buying anything -

Since there are so many stalls, you're likely to start buying from the first vendor that has something you want. But this isn't ideal for saving money, or getting the most out of your farmers' market experience. 

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Start with a walkabout before buying anything -

Instead, after you've turned up, take a few laps around the market to and note what each has to offer. You'll be able to assess the different prices and quality of goods. 

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Make a list of what you need, but be open to some creativity -

Most people don't use farmers' markets as a primary source of groceries, so make sure to plan around the availability of  ingredients, and the costs involved.  

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Make a list of what you need, but be open to some creativity -

Before you go, make a complete list of the groceries you'll need. However, use this shopping experience as an opportunity to try out new ingredients for use in everyday meals.

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Use your senses to find the best produce -

Farmer's markets can seem a bit overwhelming, but follow your eyes and nose to seek out the best stuff.

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Use your senses to find the best produce -

Allow your eyes to guide you to different vendors and the produce on sale. Look for bright colors, a firm appearance, and minimal flaws. Remember if the produce, including baked goods, smell fresh, they probably are. 

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Think seasonal -

Farmers' markets allow people to shop seasonally and take advantage of local food distribution networks during peak growing and harvesting periods. 

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Think seasonal -

Shopping seasonally is also about being aware of what kind of goods you expect to find at your market. 

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Bring enough cash and reusable bags -

Make sure you bring reusable bags to place your purchased goods in. Also, if you plan on buying frozen foods, meats, and seafood, etc., which need to stay cold, pack a cooler or insulated bag. 

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Bring enough cash and reusable bags -

Importantly, make sure you bring some cash. Some businesses appreciate small bills, and not having to pay the credit card surcharge that comes with a "plastic purchase." 

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Talk to your vendors -

Take the farmer's market as an opportunity to interact with your local farmers and vendors. You'll truly get to know your food from someone knowledgeable.

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Talk to your vendors -

By talking to a stall holder, you can also dispel rumors about how your food was produced. One of the most common misconceptions about farmers' market food is that it's all organically grown, made with sustainable methods. Asking questions will help you make a more educated consumer. 

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Timing your visit -

If you want the widest selection of goods, arrive early. But for the best savings, shop later in the day. 

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Timing your visit -

In some markets, vendors offer discounted prices in the last hour of the market to avoid loading all the goods back into the van.

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Ask for seconds -

Vendors typically bring their most attractive produce to a farmers' market because that's usually what sells. But if you don't mind, ask for seconds. 

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Ask for seconds -

Seconds are produce with some flaws, whether a couple of scrapes, odd shapes, or bruising, that prevent them from being sold at market price. While they aren't the prettiest, these goods are still safe to consume. 

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Buy in bulk -

It's more cost-effective for vendors to offer large quantities of produce at a lower bulk price than selling items individually. 

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Buy in bulk -

When produce is at its harvest peak, farmers look to move stock while it's fresh. Take advantage of the bulk deals and snap up the ripest, most flavorsome produce. 

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Don't be restricted to food -

Farmers' markets offer more than just food Many also sell jewelry, paintings, and apparel by crafted by local artisans. 

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Don't be restricted to food -

Flowers and plants are also commonly found for sale at farmers' markets. So while you stock up on weekly fruits and veggies, pick up some flowers too! 

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Shop for produce for maximum shelf life -

If you can't regularly shop at a farmers' market, buy foods with the longest shelf life possible. This way you can enjoy them long after you've left the market.

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Shop for produce for maximum shelf life -

The types of produce that last the longest in the fridge include apples, cabbage, root vegetables, and cauliflower.

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Don't eat before you go -

Many markets feature food trucks or stands selling an assortment of prepared foods from local businesses. 

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Don't eat before you go -

So take the opportunity to try out some new food and beverages before buying your weekly produce. 

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Know the sign of an unethical vendor -

A good farmer's market will do as much as possible to run their operation as representative of local farms and other vendors. But there might be some stalls that are best avoided. 

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Know the sign of an unethical vendor -

For example, if you see produce that's out of season or clearly isn't local, then the vendor is probably a box retailer trying to sell their food to unsuspecting customers. In cases like these, you'll pay a premium for the same items you can that find at your local chain grocery store. 

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Get involved in your local food network -

Farmers' markets are a great jumping-off point for interacting with local farmers and businesses. 

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Get involved in your local food network -

If you want to get involved with the organizational structure of the farmers' market, check out volunteer opportunities.

Sources: (Tasting Table) (Stacker)

See also: The benefits of home cooking

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