Find a Local Farmers Market in TN
Just about everyone should know by now that Tennessee farmers markets are one of the best places to find great local produce. They're also great places to make friends, taste test new, fresh ingredients before you buy, and even watch cooking demonstrations and entertainment in many cases.
Tennessee farmers markets highlight the products from local farms and other agri-businesses, and they take place in your home town, so you don't need to travel far to locate 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 Tennessee
The advantages of shopping at your local Tennessee farmers market are many. First off, 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. Many 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, Tennessee farmers markets are great for the environment. Farms contribute oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the air, which will help relieve global warming, and usually, farmers do not have to drive too far to the market, so the environment gets another boost by using less fuel and contributing a lower number of emissions in the air.
Generally, rates are cheaper at farmers markets, too, because the farmer does not need to mark up his prices to earn money from a wholesaler, who marks up the prices again prior to them getting to the supermarket. So, you're actually paying less money for a much better product, and who doesn't like that?
These markets benefit Tennessee farmers, as well, given that they have a weekly (or daily) market to attract customers, and in addition they don't need to ship their products days or weeks in advance at low cost, therefore they make a better profit, too. It's always better to buy from local TN farms, since the money stays in the local economy, and that means more jobs and earnings - all from buying fresh local produce!
Finding Your Local Tennessee Farmers Market
Farmers markets in most cases run from late May or early June through September or October, according to where you live and your climate. Really it all is dependent upon the growing season in your area and when farmers can get their first products to market. Tennessee 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 will find a schedule from your local Cooperative Extension or county agricultural board, too. They've become very 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 Tennessee Farmers Market
You're sure to find local Tennessee 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. Nearly all booths will offer 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 bring 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 Tennessee farmer market or two, and come home with everything else you need for a healthy, hearty dinner.