Where do you buy your produce? Although the answer may be simple, the question opens the door to a deeper discussion about buying local and supporting the farmers of your region. Farmers Markets are sprouting up all over the country, and consumers are flocking to them to pick up the freshest goods they can find. BlendAbout has picked out five of our favorites around the US.
1. The Union Square Greenmarket in New York, New York
In the most populated city in the US, you can still get freshly grown fruit and veggies in the heart of Union Square, a bustling shopping and dining neighborhood. It started back in 1976 with just a few farmers, but now has over 140 participating local farms. It’s open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2. Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in San Francisco, California
By far the most famous, it is widely acclaimed for its diversity and quality of fresh produce and artisan food products. Though a bit on the pricey side, the variety and quality of produce is unmatchable. And if you arrive early enough on Saturdays, you may get a glimpse of San Francisco’s best known chefs as they shop for local produce! The main day to shop is every Saturday, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, but shops inside the Ferry Building are open 7 days a week.
3. Copley Square Farmers Market in Boston, Massachusetts
A farmers market is a special treat here with the harsh winters that Boston experiences. The Copley Square Farmers Market, located in the historic and upscale Back Bay area, is open May through November and features several dozen vendors selling local goods. Hours of operation are every Tuesday and Friday, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
4. Green City Market in Chicago, Illinois
Operating as Chicago’s only “truly green” farmers market, the mission of Green City Market is to provide a marketplace for only purchasing sustainably grown food. The Green City Market is open year-round, but expands to include an outdoor area from May through October, every Wednesday and Saturday. Right by Lincoln Park, the market ensures that all produce is local and sustainable. The outdoor season opens every Wednesday and Saturday from 7am-1pm and the indoor season opens every Saturday.
5. The Portland Farmers Market at PSU in Portland, Oregon
“Bringing the best of the country to the heart of the city,” Portland Farmers Market is located right on the Portland State University Campus. It’s open every Saturday, and offers chef-featured cooking demos, classes, and live music.
6. The Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles, California
It’s not called the “original” for nothing. This farmers market opened back in 1934, and now hosts its own tours to visitors and locals alike. Aside from local produce, patrons can find old fashioned ice cream, poultry, and freshly-baked pies. There are even several amazing restaurants on the premises. The market is open on weekdays from 9am-9pm and on weekends from 9am-7pm.
7. Santa Fe Farmers Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico
The Santa Fe Farmers Market began back in the late 1960’s and now represents over 150 active vendors. Because of the city’s demand for fresh produce (which may be hard to find in a desert) the market began operating year round, and more farmers are extending their growing techniques to keep up. It’s open every Tuesday and Saturday, from 7am-12pm.
8. Crescent City Farmers Market in New Orleans, Louisiana
If you want unique produce and super fresh seafood, The Crescent City Farmers Market is the place to go. Juicy peaches, okra and creole tomatoes are some of their summer specialties. They’re on a mission to provide sound economic development to the greater New Orleans area, as well as create a place for the community to congregate and interact. The market opens every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at various locations in the city.
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