Find a Local Farmers Market in OK
Just about everyone understands nowadays that Oklahoma farmers markets are one of the best places to find great local produce. Fortunately they are also great places to interact socially, taste test new, fresh ingredients before you purchase, and even watch cooking demonstrations and entertainment on many occasions.
Oklahoma farmers markets highlight the products from local farms and other agri-businesses, and they happen in your own home town, so you don't have to travel far to discover them. They have 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 Oklahoma
The benefits of shopping at your local Oklahoma farmers market are many. First, you are assured the produce and other items are as fresh as they can be, since they come straight from the farm to the market. Most crops available at these markets are naturally grown, so you know your friends and family won't be eating anything except farm-fresh goodness.
Also, Oklahoma farmers markets are great for the environment. Farms contribute oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the air, which can help alleviate global warming, and usually, farmers don't have to drive too far to the market, so the environment gets another boost from using less fuel and contributing a lot fewer pollutants in the air.
Often, rates are cheaper at farmers markets, too, because the farmer does not have to mark up his prices to generate income from a wholesaler, who marks up the prices again prior to them getting to the supermarket. So, you're actually paying less of your budget for a much better product, and who does not like that?
These markets benefit Oklahoma farmers, as well, given that they have a weekly (or daily) market to bring in customers, and in addition 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 better to purchase from local OK farms, because the money stays in the local economy, and that means more jobs and earnings - all from buying fresh local produce!
Finding Your Local Oklahoma Farmers Market
Farmers markets usually 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. Oklahoma farmers markets are such a big deal now, that usually local newspapers will print a schedule of markets in your area as the season is about to begin.
Often, you'll find a schedule from your local Cooperative Extension or county agricultural board, too. They have become quite 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 Oklahoma Farmers Market
You will be sure to find local Oklahoma farms promoting their products at affordable 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. Many booths will give you a free taste of whatever you're looking at, so you can check out new flavors and crops you may not have had a chance to experience before.
Some farmers may also offer you 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 Oklahoma farmer market or two, and come home with everything you need for a healthy, hearty dinner.