There are so many reasons to love summertime in Colorado – and the amazing array of local farmers markets tops the list! Our state is home to more than 230 farmers markets, with nearly 50 of them right here in the North Metro area!
Summer meals made with a haul of fresh veggies, herbs, fruits, and other farmers market goodies are a delight for the senses, and visiting a market is also a great way to connect with community and meet local growers and food producers.
The state Department of Agriculture’s Colorado Proud program has a handy online Colorado farmers market map to help you find a market close to you, and its Colorado Farm Fresh Directory provides a comprehensive listing of farmers markets, roadside stands, u-picks, restaurants and agritourism activities statewide.
Colorado State University’s Extension Service offers Farmers’ Market Shopping Tips and good safety guidelines to keep in mind this summer. Some of the basics include:
- Go early for the best selection.
- Check out all the booths before making your choices.
- Cash is always accepted but many of Colorado farmers markets also take credit cards and Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards that enable food stamp transactions at farmers markets.
- Bring cloth shopping bags, and insulated bags for cold or frozen foods.
- Take your time and get to know your local vendors and their foods. Many booths offer cooking tips or recipes.
- Try a new item each time you visit – you might just discover a favorite food!
- Bring a cooler with cold packs or ice to keep perishable foods cool on the way home.
Hungry yet? Find farmers market recipe ideas on the Boulder County Farmers Markets blog.
A summer visit to local farmers market is one of the easiest and most fun ways to connect to our food and appreciate the abundance of delicious, high-quality produce grown in our state – and foster a true appreciation for the farmers who produce it. We’ll see you strolling at a market soon!
