by Zachary Maichuk

Created on: May 22, 2009   Last Updated: May 29, 2009

Farmer's markets are hidden treasures that reveal themselves as spring turns to summer, and the first harvests are ready. For the health conscious, it's a chance to grab vegetables at the peak of their freshness, as the close location to the market allows the farmers to pick and ship in a short time. For the environmentally conscious, the locally grown foods reduce the need for long distance transportation, saving fuel and reducing pollutants in the atmosphere. For the gourmand, it is a chance to find heirloom produce, exotic meats, and artisan breads and cheeses. For everyone else, it's about a return to the community, where people can converge to celebrate the bounty of the season, with all its tastes, colors and smells. Taking full advantage of all the farmer's market can offer requires curiosity, initiative and a willingness to socialize. When done properly, shopping at the farmer's market can be likened unto a treasure hunt: it requires a plan, a desire to explore and an ability to converse with the natives. To help with this adventure, here are a few survival tips:

1) Go early.

Farmer's markets are run on a first come, first serve basis. The produce is laid out at the beginning of the day, and the best of the farms are usually what is the first to go. Getting there early gives you the chance to get the best of what the farmers are offering.

2) Bring supplies appropriate for this adventure.

Don't think of this as quick shopping trip. Plan to be at the market for a while. A good bottle of water (preferably a reusable one refilled at home) is a good start. On a sunny day, a good hat and sunglasses will help. Canvas tote bags will hold more and hold up better than any plastic bag you can get at the market. Snacks are optional, as you will be surrounded by delicious foods at the market. If you opt not bring snacks, bring a small kitchen knife and a cutting board, as you can collect the ingredients for a snack at the market. One favorite activity when I travel to markets with friends is to find a nice shady spot, break out the cutting board and our newly acquired loot, and have an impromptu picnic lunch or snack.

3) Explore before you buy.

You will be surrounded by fantastic foods in shapes and sizes you won't believe. If you impulsively grab the first produce you see, you may fill up your bags before you find that truly fantastic ingredient. Farmer's markets bring more than just the common foods from the supermarket. You will

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