Since before sunrise, nearly 70 vendors at the Carrboro Farmers’ Market in North Carolina have been draping their tables with linens, piling heirloom tomatoes in wicker baskets, stacking fresh baked goods, and filling watering cans with flowers. Markets such as this one bring more to the table than delicious ingredients. They’re reminders of where our food comes from, they provide economic support for local farmers, and they’re a healthy incentive to cook in tandem with the seasons. Chefs actively support markets, too. Check out our bevy of fresh recipes from top chefs who faithfully shop the Carrboro Market, one of the oldest farmer-owned and -operated markets in the country.

TIPS FOR SHOPPING AT FARMERS MARKETS
Whether you’re at home or traveling, find the markets near you by logging on to www.localharvest.org or www.farmersmarket.com.

• Ask questions and befriend the farmers. Unlike at the grocery store, you have the opportunity to meet the growers and learn about the food you buy. Ask if the produce is organic or locally grown and when it was picked. At many markets, you’re getting extra-fresh, organic produce at much lower prices than you can find in grocery stores.

• Tour the market before buying. The best way to find favorite vendors, see what’s available, and compare prices and quality is to stroll the whole market. This means coming early for the best selection (or late for bargains). If a vendor is out of what you want, ask them to set aside an order for you at the next market. Some vendors will grow or bake specialty items upon request.

• Dress comfortably; come prepared. Take your own sturdy shopping bags with comfortable handles. Only carry as much cash as you want to spend.

• Make it a family or friends outing. Meet friends for coffee and shopping or bring the family. Give kids money to make their own healthy purchases; cook together later.

• Ask about CSAs and farm tours. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a program where you pay a fee up front for weekly shares of a farm’s harvest. This helps farmers finance planting season, guarantees you’ll get produce, and builds a relationship. Farm tours bring you to the source and are fun.