Find a Local Farmers Market in OH
Just about everybody knows these days that Ohio farmers markets are among the best places to find great local produce. They're also great places to interact socially, taste test new, fresh ingredients before you purchase, and even watch cooking demonstrations and entertainment on many occasions.
Ohio farmers markets highlight the products from local farms and other agri-businesses, and they take place in your home town, so you aren't required to journey far to find them. They've been going on for years in some locations, but they've gotten popular in the last few years, so you should be able to find one not far from home!
The Benefits of Farmers Markets in Ohio
The benefits of shopping at your local Ohio farmers market are many. First, you know the produce and other items are as fresh as they can be, since they come directly from the farm to the market. The majority of crops available at these markets are organically grown, so you know your family and friends won't be eating anything except farm-fresh goodness.
Also, Ohio farmers markets are good for the environment. Farms contribute oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the air, which can help relieve global warming, and usually, farmers don't need to drive too far to the market, so the environment gets another boost while using less fuel and contributing a lower number of emissions in the air.
Generally, prices are cheaper at farmers markets, too, because the farmer doesn't have to mark up his prices to make money from a wholesaler, who marks up the prices again prior to them getting to the supermarket. So, you are actually paying less cash for a much better product, and who doesn't like that?
These markets benefit Ohio farmers, as well, since they have a weekly (or daily) market to attract customers, and they don't need to ship their products days or weeks beforehand at low cost, therefore they make a better profit, too. It's always safer to buy from local OH farms, because the money stays in the local economy, and that means more jobs and profitability - all from buying fresh local produce!
Finding Your Local Ohio Farmers Market
Farmers markets generally run from late May or early June through September or October, depending on where you live and your climate. Really it all depends on the growing season in your area and when farmers can get their first products to market. Ohio farmers markets are such a big deal now, that typically local newspapers will print a schedule of markets in your area as the season is about to begin.
Often, you can find a schedule from your local Cooperative Extension or county agricultural board, too. They've become so popular, in fact, that some communities enjoy a number of farmers markets every week, so it pays to shop all of them and choose the ones that provide the produce and other products you like the best.
What to Look for at a Ohio Farmers Market
You are sure to find local Ohio farms offering their products at sensible prices, but there are a few things to look out for. Make sure the produce is ripe and hasn't been sitting out in the sun too long, or has been damaged in transport. Most booths offer a free taste of whatever you're looking at, so you can check out new flavors and crops you might not have had a chance to experience before.
Some farmers may even supply you with recipes and other ideas on how to serve their products, too. At the really big markets, organizers may bring in free entertainment, arts and crafts booths, and other amusements to draw in the crowds, and they may even provide play areas for the kids, too.
Look for other items at your farmers market, too. Sometimes local meat, cheese, and dairy producers bring their wares, and big markets are more like a county fair, with food booths, information booths, and even games for the whole family. So, check out a local Ohio farmer market or two, and come home with everything you need for a healthy, hearty dinner.