Farmers' Markets As a Treat & a Much-Needed Escape
Going to a farmers’ market is generally a big part of my summer. Every year, I look forward to the warm weather months when our local market will resume. For those of us who live in the cold climate region, the farmers’ markets usually run from April to October. This year in particular, the farmers’ market took on a bigger role in my summer. With limited trips and nonexistent summer traveling, I find the farmers’ market a treat and an escape. My family always makes the effort to check out local farmers’ markets wherever we travel. It’s actually one of my favorite activities to do during our trips. You get to witness the local culture, taste local fare, and consume fresh fruits and vegetables. Markets in certain regions are quite large and a tourist attraction. Some of my fondest memories are from the ones in Italy, southern France, and California.
In addition to the seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, many farmers’ markets have vendors who sell other delicious treats. It could be a bread vendor who sells all kinds of breads, pastries, and desserts. I go to my local farmers’ market for their stuffed breads and fruit pies. Some of my favorites from my neighboring town’s market are chocolate croissants, cherry pecan bread and chocolate bread from the Berkshire Mountain Bakery (which also sells their products online via www.berkshiremountainbakery.com) and I do need to go early before they sell out. Each market is unique based on the vendors. Some markets have dairy products, eggs, honeys, jams/preserves, local wines or even homemade soaps. Some markets also host food trucks where you can grab lunch and snacks and make a day out of it (note that during the pandemic many markets might not host certain vendors such as food trucks). Markets in European towns are a bit vast and have a variety of products including deli meats, rotisserie chickens, and artisanal goods, which make great souvenirs.
I recommend checking out your local, as well as those of neighboring towns, farmers’ markets as you will find each market special and unique in its own way. As you can expect, a bigger town tends to have more vendors and smaller towns typically have fewer vendors. Regardless of their sizes, you will find seasonal fruits and vegetables and even vegetables not commonly sold in grocery stores, as well as delightful treats. More than ever, we need to support our local agriculture and economy.
