FRESH Produce Season!

It’s that time of year when the local farmers markets are open and ready for us!

There are SO many things to love about farmers markets! Here are some reasons why I love visiting and supporting these local markets:

1. Fresh and Locally Grown Produce: One of the biggest draws of farmers markets is the abundance of fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Additionally, buying from local farmers supports the local economy and reduces the environmental impact of long-distance transportation.
2. Variety and Seasonality: Farmers markets offer a wide variety of produce that may not be available at regular grocery stores. The offerings change with the seasons, so each visit can bring new surprises and allow you to connect with the local agricultural cycles.
3. High-Quality Products: Farmers markets are known for their high-quality products. Farmers take pride in their work and use sustainable farming practices that prioritize the health of the soil, plants, and animals.
4. Direct Interaction with Farmers: One of the most rewarding aspects of visiting farmers markets is the opportunity to meet and talk directly with the farmers who grow your food
5. Support for Local Economy: By buying from farmers markets, you support local farmers and small-scale producers. The money you spend at farmers markets stays within the local economy, benefiting your neighbors and fostering economic resilience.
6. Artisanal Products: In addition to fresh produce, farmers markets often offer an array of artisanal products such as homemade jams, preserves, baked goods, cheeses, mushrooms, honey, and more. These unique and handcrafted items can make for great gifts or additions to your pantry.
7. Vibrant Atmosphere: They’re fun! It’s a chance to socialize, meet friends, and connect with neighbors while enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors of the market.
8. Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly: By choosing locally grown food, you contribute to a more sustainable food system and help reduce your carbon footprint. P.S. – Be sure to bring your own reusable shopping bags!

Check out these markets – they’re some of my favorites.

• The Bellingham Farmers Market runs on Saturdays from 10am-2pm through the third week of December at the Depot Market Square downtown (1100 Railroad Ave).
• The Lynden Farmers Market runs Saturdays from 10am-2pm from June through September at 4^th and Grover, across from the Lynden Library.
• The Mount Vernon Farmers Market runs on Saturdays from 9am-2pm, May 20th through October 14^th, located downtown at Skagit Riverwalk Park.
• The Anacortes Farmers Market season runs on Saturdays from 8am-2pm, May through October, at the Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave.
• The Sedro-Woolley Farmers Market runs each Wednesday from 3pm-7pm starting May 24th and runs through October 18^th at Hammer Heritage Square (corner of Metcalf & Ferry).

Hope to see you soon at one of our fabulous Farmers Markets!

Speaking of Markets – Are you familiar with all of our local fish markets? There are lots of options! Three that we like:

• Bellingham: Bellingham Fish Market
• Bow: Taylor Shellfish Farms
• Anacortes: Blackrock Seafood
• Blaine: Drayton Harbor Oysters

More Whatcom and Skagit Events for produce

• June: Berry Dairy Days
• July: Northwest Raspberry Festival
• September: Growers Field Day   Whatcom County Farm Tour