Broke-ass Guide to Farmer’s Markets

A trip to the local farmer’s market can often end poorly, do to pricey produce and overzealous shopping. With the help of the following tips, you can make your next trip to the market a happy, successful adventure into the life of a farmer….or something.

1. Get to know the farmers
After surveying your options and finding your favorite vendors, become a loyal customer/pal and you shall be rewarded. Certain farmers or market sales people will throw in an extra somethin somethin when they know you’re a good customer, and will usually be happy to shoot the shit and talk about things they are passionate about.

2. Go with a goal
My biggest problem at the market is knowing when to stop. When you’re faced with a bounty of beautiful, fresh, amazing produce it’s easy to get a bit carried away and buy more decorative gourds than one can possibly handle. If you go with a certain recipe in mind, or at least be reasonable about your likely consumption, you’ll be able to keep a handle on your spending. Also, don’t shop for food when you’re hungry. Duh.

3. Extreme arrival time
If you get there first thing in the morning, the crowds won’t be as intense and you’ll be able to nurture your new farmer friendship. Going later in the day may mean getting the dregs of supplies, but you’ll probably also get tons of free shit that the vendors are trying to unload.  Pick you poison.

Enjoy!

Photo from: you-can-go-green.com