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I love good quality produce and don't always find the grocery store options impressive. We have found amazing fruit and vegetables at the Salt Lake City farmer's market, and we even save money! Prices are cheaper or comparable to normal produce in the grocery store, and these are for organic products! The music, samples, food trucks, and outdoor fun are bonuses we love as well. :)
I have found a system for Farmer's market shopping that works well for us, so I wanted to share a few of my tips for getting the most out of your trip.
Know your local market's schedule: Some farmer's markets are open biweekly while other's are set up every week. Find out your local schedule. Also, some are open all summer and fall, so you might be able to take advantage of fresh produce even into October! (Pumpkins!!)
Know what is in season: I like to know what fruits and veggies are in season each month so I can be sure to pick up our favorites while they're available and don't miss them. For example, we loaded up on cherries the last few weeks in June while they are the best since we know the season will end soon!
Make a list: Making a list based on your grocery list and/or meal plan for the next week helps to keep you from forgetting something you need and from buying more than you need. It also helps to have a direction, so you don't feel overwhelmed or scattered as you check out all the vendors. I like to give myself one splurge purchase that might not be on the list, but looks great!
Shop before you buy: Take a survey trip through the market checking out prices, what's available, and trying samples before purchasing your items. After I've scouted out the options, I go back to only the vendors I want to buy from. Nothing's worse than making a purchase only to find something you like better or is cheaper at the next stop!
Come prepared: some vendors do not provide bags, or only have small ones, so bringing your own shopping bag is helpful. I like to use this canvas "Homegrown" tote that is available in our shop! If I need more space or have heavier items, the bottom our our stroller has extra storage. ;)
Since we drive a little ways to the city for the market, we often have other stops for the day. Keeping a cooler in the car will keep your produce fresh! I also like to have jar of water for blooms on the car ride home.
Treat yourself: We always leave room in the budget to grab something from the food trucks at our market after we shop! We love getting pizza, limeade, or pastries. We take our food and sit in the park for lunch before we leave the market. :)
Treat yourself: We always leave room in the budget to grab something from the food trucks at our market after we shop! We love getting pizza, limeade, or pastries. We take our food and sit in the park for lunch before we leave the market. :)








Josy comes for the cherries! ;)

Shop our Homegrown tote bag here!
If you have any other favorite tips, please share! Also, what is your favorite summer food?