If you’re trying to eat more healthy and locally-grown fruit and vegetables, you’re in luck. Dallas has one of the best farmers markets in the country, with an incredible selection of not only produce but naturally raised meats, cheese, eggs and honey, along with fresh bread, a host of regional and international foods and arts and (wait, there’s more!) crafts from local artisans.
The Dallas Farmers Market is held in The Shed, an open-air pavilion that hosts the market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This unique venue showcases local farmers and ranchers that provide a wide variety of fresh food that’s grown and raised in our area. What will you find at the market? It depends on the time of the year! One of the great things about shopping at a farmers market is that you’re finding in-season produce produced close by, at peak flavor and nutrition. (That’s why you aren’t likely to see produce such as bananas and avocados at this market.)
Research shows that in-season produce is more flavorful, full of nutrients and chock full of antioxidants. They’re an important part of not only a healthy diet but a sustainable one. The foods at the Dallas Farmers Market don’t travel long distances in trucks to get to you. They aren’t processed in cans, boxes or plastic packaging. The carbon footprint of buying local and eating seasonally is much smaller and it has a positive impact on the earth.
Another great benefit: You can create awesome meals and treats using your fresh produce. Just check out these recipes! And don’t forget to visit the Community Garden during your visit. It’s an awesome place where North Texas residents can learn how to sustainably grow their own fruits and vegetables along with visiting the market to purchase them from local farmers.
A couple of tips for shopping at the market:
- Set aside enough time to stroll through the market. There’s so much to see, do and learn! Most first-timers don’t leave enough time in their schedule to truly explore everything the market has the offer, get to know farmers and take in all of that homegrown goodness.
- Shop early in the day. The best selection of fruits, vegetables and other products is found earlier in the day.
- Use the Find Vendors tool. It will help you see what will be available for purchase on the day of your visit. Make a shopping list! Even if you arrive in the afternoon, though, you’re still to find a great selection of fresh produce and other goods.
- Bring your credit card or cash. All vendors accept both.
- Consider bringing a cooler. It’s an easy way to keep your produce cool and fresh on the way home.
- Bring your own shopping bags to transport your purchases home. Reusable bags are a great way to go!
- If you have questions, stop by the information booth.
- Ask individual vendors about pre-orders. They are available for products like eggs, natural meats and artisan products. If there’s something you especially like, talk to the vendor.
Thinking about stopping by the market next weekend? Here’s a month-by-month guide of what you can expect to see while you’re there. If you shop the market regularly, you may want to join the Dallas Farmers Market Locals Program, which includes a variety of perks throughout the year. An individual membership is $65; a family of four can join for $125 (with each additional family member an extra $25) and a business can join for $500 (providing benefits to a total of 10 employees). Sign up for the market’s newsletter to keep up to date with market news, seasonal offerings and market events. You also can learn more about the market by listening to its podcasts. Listen to them on your way to work!
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