The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has declared August 4th-10th 2013 as National Farmers Market Week!
Ever wonder about the importance of your local farmers market? “Farmers markets are an important public face for agriculture and a critical part of our nation’s food system,” said Agricultural Secretary Tom Vilsack. “They provide benefits not only to the farmers looking for important income opportunities, but also help fill a growing consumer demand for fresh, healthy foods. In recent years, USDA has stepped up efforts to support local and regional marketing opportunities for producers, including a modernized Farmer’s Market Directory to help connect farmers, consumers, communities, and businesses around the country.”
There are currently 8,144 farmers markets listed on the USDA’s National Farmers Market Directory. This is exciting progress, highlighting an additional 5,000 members since 2008. The Directory is voluntarily updated by farmers market managers, state department of agriculture, marketing associations, and other and can be found online at farmersmarkets.usda.gov.
The 10 Best Farmers Markets in the U.S.:
1. Pike Place Market, Seattle
Why? – Serves as a main attraction for residents and travelers alike. A central market that features an abundance of produce, meat, and fish stands. There are also plenty of craft-specialty kiosks featuring local artwork and novelties. The Market is open 7 days a week and closes around 5pm. Best of all, there are several fine-dining restaurants throughout the historic district which stay open late.
2. Farmers Market, Los Angeles
Why? – This market claims to be “the original” farmers market originating in 1934 by a few famers posting up their trucks. Today, this market is thriving with unique kiosks, stands, shops, and restaurants. In true California fashion, the market is open year-round (observing Thanksgiving and Christmas), and kicks it up a notch with live musical performances on Thursdays and Fridays during the summer.
3. Union Square Greenmarket, New York City
Why? – The Big Apple has a very big market; the Union Square Greenmarket has over 140 stands and sees about 60,000 visitors per day. Stands feature fresh farm produce, meat, fish, preserves, and a delicious selection of baked goods.
4. Charleston Farmers Market, Charleston
Why? – First, the location- Marion Square is beautiful. Second- the market is big. Visitors can find more than just edible goodies. The market has everything from vintage jewelry to handmade pasta- oh and an impressive selection of local meats and produce. Hurry in, this market is open from April to December.
5. Boston Copley Square Farmers Market, Boston
Why? – Why not?! Boston comes alive in the warmer weather, and this market is all the buzz from May through November. Local vendors set up selling produce and quirky goods. Located in the historic Back Bay area, this market is alive with culture.
6. Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University, Portland, OR
Why? – This market really came onto the scene in 1992 and has since remained a favorite throughout the famers market community. The market is open every Saturday, March through December, which really makes every trip seem special. The fresh stands are always a hit, but the real attraction are those stands offering mouthwatering sandwiches and snacks to hungry shoppers.
7. Eastern Market, Washington, D.C.
Why? – Located in historic Capital Hill, Eastern Market is one of the oldest and largest fresh produce markets in D.C. There are two designated outdoor markets, and a smaller indoor market which is open six days a week. Here, visitors can find anything and everything. There is an abundance of local artists displaying their work and inside serves up great lunch fare.
8. Sweet Auburn Curb Market, Atlanta
Why? – Towards the eastern part of downtown Atlanta, this attracts residents, students, and visitors. A majority of this market is indoors, which is a major bonus considering how hot it gets, and its doors have been open since 1918. Only closed on Sundays, shoppers can find vendors, stands, and a selection of restaurants.
9. Green City Market, Chicago
Why? – This market’s main focus is local and sustainability. The market is open year round and offers an impressive list of entertainment including the outdoor market/area from May to October and opens on Wednesdays and Saturdays for a special treat. The true highlight is the market’s offering of numerous educational programs.
10. Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, San Francisco
Why? – This is an indoor/outdoor concept, and has beautiful views located on the San Francisco Bay. Open three days a week, each day features specific vendors and specialties. Tuesdays are mostly organic produce, Thursdays highlighting artisanal street fare, and Saturdays hosts local restaurants that cook up something truly special.
Farmers Markets also benefit the surrounding city businesses. Having a farmers market nearby means an average increase in sales of anywhere from $19,000 to $15 million (according to a Marketumbrella research paper published in 2012).