Ready, Set, Go! Twin Cities Farmers' Markets Open This Weekend

TODD BUCHANAN

Mark your calendars. Pack your reusable grocery bags. Slap on some sunscreen. The Twin Cities farmers’ market season will start this Saturday, with season openers at the Minneapolis Farmers Market at North Lyndale and the downtown St. Paul Farmers’ Market on Saturday.
Several other markets have scheduled opening days as well:

• Duluth Farmer's Market on May 5th
• Kingfield Farmers Market on May 20th
• Midtown Farmers Market  on May 5th
• Mill City Farmers Market on May 12th
• Northeast Farmers Market on June 2nd
• Linden Hills Farmers Market on June 3rd

There are many smaller or satellite farmers’ markets throughout the cities and Minnesota. Local Harvest has an online farmers’ market locater to help you find a market near you. And the Minnesota Farmers Market Association has a list of Minnesota farmers’ markets organized by location with links.
Gear up to stroll through lovely outdoor markets as you sample and/or purchase fresh produce, plants, baked goods, cheese, meat, honey, maple syrup, confections, soap, crafts, and more. Take some time to talk with the vendors to learn more about their products and what makes them special. In addition to goods to take home, most markets have vendors and/or food trucks with food and drinks, as well as live music and activities for kids. Make the most of your visit by checking out markets’ websites to see what’s going on that weekend.
More farmers’ market tips and tricks:

• Avoid the crowds by going early.
• Get the best deals by going late.
• Wear sensible shoes and sunscreen.
• Pack a water bottle.
• Bring reusable bags.
• Bring cash, preferably small bills.
• Talk to the vendors, but don’t monopolize their time. If you have a lot of questions, ask if you can contact them during the week.

Let the countdown begin!
And just in case you need a bit of inspiration, check out this video from the Mill City Farmers’ Market:

Posted on Wednesday, April 25, 2012 in Permalink

Cross post from TC Taste: Ready, Set, Go: It's Farmers’ Market Season! - Twin Cities Taste - April 2012 - Minnesota

[where: Sustainable Food, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Twin Cities, Minnesota]