Farmers Market are a great way to support local growers and artisans while enjoying fresh, seasonal produce. Colorado has over 100 farmers markets varying in size and frequency. Colorado has a few that operate year-round, while others are seasonal.
Farmers Market Shopping Tips
- Make a flexible meal plan before you go. You may be able to find all the ingredients you need for several amazing dinners!
- Go early for the best selection.
- Check out all the booths before making your choices. There is generally a large and colorful variety of produce.
- 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 a farmers’ market – you may discover a favorite food. Ask the vendor for handling and preparation instructions.
- Share the bounty – take some fruit or flowers to a friend or neighbor. Extra produce can also be frozen, dried or canned for out-of-season enjoyment.
Artisan Foods
Many farmers markets support local artisans making food from home. In Colorado, we know this as Cottage Foods. These foods can vary from homemade jams and jellies to bread and tortillas. It is important to know what to look for in artisan foods.
- Check to see if the food has a label that lists the ingredients and the date the product was made
- Ask how best to use the item with a meal
More Shopping Tips
- Wear comfortable clothing, shoes, and sunscreen.
- Bring clean cloth shopping bags.
- Sturdy bags work better for items like melons, squash, and corn
- Insulated bags work well for cold or frozen foods.
- Find out where the produce comes from to ensure that it was Colorado-grown.
- Ask how the products were prepared.
- Go home soon after making your purchases in order to maintain peak quality.
Colorado Proud
Colorado has a unique logo, Colorado Proud, to watch for when shopping at farmers markets. This logo helps you identify that you are buying locally grown, raised and processed food and agricultural products. It is a great initiative to support local farmers and producers while enjoying high-quality products from our state.
