Farmers Market Roundup

Alberta is a province is a province of abundance and what better way to enjoy its bounty than by checking out a farmers’ market. Farmers' markets offer shoppers the opportunity to purchase fresh picked, seasonal fruit and vegetables, or homemade products directly from the producer who grows or processes it.

Seasonal, fresh products offer a peak experience of ripeness and flavour. Selecting “food less travelled” is good for the environment; helps support Alberta’s local producers and food processors, and can provide a colourful and competitively priced addition to your menu. Markets are also great spots to seek out specialized varieties of fruits and vegetables that often aren’t sold in grocery stores.

Farmers’ markets operate in rural and urban communities across Alberta. They vary in size and sophistication, from large sheltered public markets to a few farmers with their trucks parked next to each other in a parking lot or farm field. Some markets operate year round while others are open only during the summer months. Visit several markets to experience and compare the differences in the products offered and the ambiance. To find a farmers' market in your community or an area you will be visiting, see Alberta Agriculture and Food’s farmers’ markets map.

Making the most of your experience at a farmers' market

• Take cash. Banking machines often aren’t readily available at most farmers' markets and many market vendors do not take cheques or credit cards.
  
• Put the cooler and ice packs in the car, to keep your purchases fresh.
  
• Take a basket or your own grocery bags.
  
• Bring a wagon or cart on wheels to carry all the items that you buy at the farmers' market.
  
• Leave pets at home as most markets do not allow animals because of food safety and health regulations.
  
• Shop early in the day for the best variety of produce and products.
  
• Walk the entire market before you make any purchases to check out prices and the variety of products offered.
  
• Buy heavy items like produce at the end of your market visit.

Adapted from Alberta Agriculture and Food and the Alberta Farmers’ Market Association.