As more markets open over the coming weeks, make your trip to market more exciting and easeful with some simple tips to help you make the most of your market visits—and feel good knowing your choices are helping our communities grow and thrive. Shopping at a farmers market is as much about the experience as it is about the fresh food and a little preparation goes a long way as markets can be busy places with different traffic flows, parking situations, payment methods, pet policies, and more.
Start by checking the market’s website or social media for parking information, hours of operation, directions, and accessibility information—especially if it’s your first time or if the market has changed locations. Many Buncombe County farmers markets are near bus stops or have bike parking areas, too–see a list of markets on the bus line at asapconnections.org/farmersmarkets. Unless there is an extreme weather event, most markets stay open rain or shine!
Curious about who will be at market and what products and produce they will be bringing? Some markets offer updates on attending vendors through their website, social media, or weekly newsletter. Stay in the know and sign up for the market’s newsletter for important updates, seasonal offerings, special events, vendor spotlights, and more.
Farmers markets can get very busy and often have peak visit times. If you have the flexibility—and as you get to know your favorite or neighborhood farmers market—plan your visit around heavy traffic times so it may be easier to find parking and navigate the market. This is a case where the early bird gets the worm! If you want to make sure the items or ingredients you are looking for don’t sell out, get there early. Don’t be afraid to swing by later, too—you might score some end-of-day deals.
If you are wondering how to pay, most vendors accept cash, credit, and debit. If you have SNAP, head to the market’s information booth to swipe your EBT card and exchange or tokens to spend at market. Each market (that accepts SNAP) has their own SNAP token that can only be redeemed on SNAP-eligible foods at that market. If your market participates in ASAP’s Double SNAP for Fruits and Vegetables program, double your SNAP up to $20 for fruit and vegetable tokens to spend at any participating market—to see a full list and learn more at asapconnections.org/snap. Many markets have credit/debit tokens too, in case you are buying from a vendor who doesn’t have a card reader and you’re out of cash.
Once you’re on your way, don’t forget to bring your reusable bags, boxes, and carts to fill! You might end up getting more than you expect and most vendors don’t have free grocery bags available. A small cooler or insulated bag is also a good addition if you plan to buy perishable items like dairy, eggs, or meat—especially in the high heat of the year. Don’t be afraid to have an accessibility moment and bring your bag on wheels—especially if you plan to buy a lot or have to walk a ways back to your vehicle. Many markets sell branded tote bags too, so you can carry all your goods, sport your favorite market, and support the market’s ongoing operations and programming.
Once you’re at the market, take time to explore all the vibrant sights and smells, get to know the farmers and food producers, and pick up something truly delicious. Be open to trying new foods—farmers often grow unique or heirloom varieties that aren’t available in grocery stores. If you’re unsure how to prepare something, just ask! If you made something delicious with their produce, tell them! Most farmers are passionate about what they grow and love sharing recipes or storage tips and love hearing from their customers.
At spring markets, find a variety of produce including leeks, spring onions, collards, bok choy, turnips, radishes, parsnips, carrots, strawberries, rhubarb, and more. You’ll also find farm-fresh eggs, cheese, bread, pastries, fermented products, drinks, and prepared foods. As always, you can find information about farms, tailgate markets, and farm stands, including locations and hours, by visiting ASAP’s online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org.