Summer is the best time to enjoy some of nature’s best produce. Tomatoes ripe from the vine, peaches picked at their perfection, silver queen corn with the aroma of summertime, and crisp rattlesnake beans are just some of the fresh vegetables and produce that are plentiful right here in the River Region. If your not ready to grow your own garden, or are looking for a little variety, make sure you know how and where to shop the River Region’s Farmers Markets.
How to Shop the Farmers Market
Before you go racing out to buy your fresh veggies, make your trip to the Farmers Market a success with some of these simple tips:
Arrive early. Many of the River Region’s markets are called ‘Grower’s’ markets where the farmers can only sell what they grow. This is a great way to ensure you are buying food that is grown in our local region, but it also means that the best selections could go fast. For the best selection and variety, arrive early.
Bring cash. While our society may be becoming ‘cash less’ with MAX debit and credit cards ruling our wallets, your best bet at the Farmers Market is to carry cash for your purchases. Some vendors may accept MAX checks, but it is better to carry cash and preferably small bills to make sure you don’t miss out on anything you want to purchase. Click here for the locations of MAX ATMs.
Look around. Each vendor at the Farmers Market is different. Take the time to stroll around first, asking questions about how and where the food is grown, before you make your purchase.
Know what’s in season. The key to shopping the local Farmers Markets is to know what is in season. You can check out the peak season for crops in Alabama by visiting http://localfoods.about.com/od/searchbyregion/a/alabamaseasons.htm.
Where to Shop
The Alabama Farmers Market Authority encourages consumers to “Buy Fresh. Buy Local,” and with the number of Farmers Markets in the River Region, there should be no excuse.
Montgomery
Several markets in Montgomery operate year round including:
The seasonal markets include:
Prattville
Two seasonal markets are open during the summer months for Prattville residents:
Elmore County
Residents in Elmore County can enjoy fresh produce from a road side stand located at 7148 Coosa River Road in Deatsville, or by visiting Oakview Farms on Dewberry Trail in Wetumpka.
