Tips for Shopping at a Farmers Market

From CFI

Farmers Market Season is upon us! Most markets in your area started early May. It is the time of year that locals can take advantage of a unique shopping experience. Discover new and interesting foods, meet the local producers while taking in the colorful array of flowers, plants and produce. Fulfill your five senses with a visit to your nearby Farmers Market. In Fort Bragg- Wednesdays 3:30-6:00; corner of W. Spruce and N. Main St. In Mendocino- Friday 12-2; Howard and Main St. www.mcfarm.org or 964-6718 for more information.

SHOPPING TIPS for the Farmers Markets- Ideas for getting the most out of your visits

  • Go to the market early to get the best and freshest selection of produce. Much of the produce has been picked within 24 hours and stored for optimal freshness, but it is rarely refrigerated at the market.
  • Come knowing you may be seeing familiar faces, friends and neighbors...you may want to allow a little extra time for “catching up”.
  • Stroll around the market to enjoy the fragrance and beautiful selections before you choose your purchases. Be aware that local produce is seasonal...you may not find tomatoes until June or July.
  • Bring change and bills of smaller denominations to make shopping faster and easier (farmers are rarely set up to accept credit cards in our markets)
  • Produce vendors accept WIC (Women Infant & Children) vouchers and Senior WIC vouchers. Tear the vouchers out of the booklet at time of purchase.
  • Take advantage of samples that are offered. You may learn something new and appreciate the taste differences of similar products.
  • At some markets, a “Friends of the Market” program is in place (or will be soon). Take advantage of educational pamphlets, a Spanish-speaking liason and someone who can help you manage while shopping.
  • Soon you will be able to purchase “Green Bucks” as gifts for friends, family, co-workers or subsidize a membership for a deserving family.
  • Ask the farmer questions when you don’t know what an item is or how to cook it. You may discover some new favorites.
  • Put an ice chest in your car or an insulated pack on your bike to keep your perishables fresh, (such as the specialty cheeses and meats), especially during hot weather, .
  • Be eco-conscious and bring your own bags and larger carriers such as cloth market bags or baskets. Don’t worry if you’re not prepared. Vendors will provide you with produce bags.
  • Enjoy your Farmers Market shopping experience- take a minute to appreciate the music and the vibrant colors of the market produce, flowers and plants.


Article provided by the Mendocino County Farmers Market Association- President Mimi Booth & Office Manager, Angela Harney

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