 What is a Farmers' Market?
A farmers' market is a physical retail market featuring foods sold directly by farmers to consumers. Farmers' markets typically consist of booths, tables or stands, outdoors or indoors, where farmers sell fruits, vegetables, meats, and sometimes prepared foods and beverages. They are distinguished from public markets, which are generally housed in permanent structures, open year-round, and offer a variety of non-farmer/producer vendors, packaged foods and non-food products.
Farmers' markets exist worldwide and reflect their local culture and economy. Their size ranges from a few stalls to several city blocks. In some cultures, live animals, imported delicacies unavailable locally, and personal goods and crafts are sold.
7 ways a farmers' market helps you:
1. reduced overhead: driving, parking, etc.
2. fresher foods
3. seasonal foods
4. healthier foods
5. a better variety of foods,
6. a place to meet neighbors, chat, etc.
7. a place to enjoy an outdoor walk while getting needed groceries
Individuals enjoy farmers' markets as a way to personally contribute to the community benefits of reducing transport, storage, & refrigeration.
According to Farmers Markets of America, customers drawn to farmers' markets shop locally for three main reasons:
1) food quality
2) better prices
3) and a great social atmosphere.
Based on a figure shown in Farmers Markets of America, the prices at a farmers' market are lower than prices at a supermarket 91% of the time.
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