The Farmers Market Dos and Don’ts Every Shopper Should Know

Feeling intimidated by the confident shoppers pushing their grocery trolleys through the farmers market? Don’t know a turnip from a kohlrabi? A recent Washington Post story offers some great tips on how to shop the farmers market like a pro, featuring insights from FRESHFARM Executive Director Cat Oakar and others, and images of our newly expanded Arlington farmers market.

As the operator of the largest farmers market network in the region, FRESHFARM has thoughts not covered in the story! After decades of ringing the opening bell, watching the seasons turn, and seeing every kind of shopper come through, we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a great market experience (and what makes farmers cringe). Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned regular, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this farmers market season.

Come prepared

The basics go a long way. Bring more reusable bags than you think you’ll need so you can avoid loading precious produce into flimsy plastic bags that might tear. It isn’t worth the risk! Tuck a few repurposed produce clamshells in your tote to protect delicate items like berries, stone fruit, and tomatoes. And while most farmers and producers accept cards, consider paying in cash. Every card swipe costs small businesses a fee. Small bills are especially appreciated, and exact change keeps the line moving.

If you want the best of what’s available, show up early before things sell out or get picked over. The first hour of market is when you’ll find the widest selection, the shortest lines, and your best shot at scoring seasonal firsts — like asparagus in spring, corn in early summer, or the hyper-fleeting treats like morels and pawpaws that may be available for just a few weeks. 

Slow down and look around

Resist the urge to grab and go. Do a full lap through the market to get the lay of the land before shopping. See what’s in, compare prices, and get a feel for who’s selling what. You might discover a new farmer, spot something you didn’t know was in season, or decide to build dinner around something you didn’t plan on, like a duck egg and asparagus frittata. You can also do a quick pit stop at the orange FRESHFARM Market Info Tent and ask market staff, the real farmers market insiders, for the scoop on what’s new or who’s popping up.  

The dos

Talk to the farmers. This is, genuinely, the whole point. The person behind the table is often the one who grew or made what you’re about to buy. Ask what’s most delicious this week. Ask how to store it, how to cook it, and what’s coming in next. Great conversations follow, and you’ll leave knowing more than any recipe website could tell you.

Buy in bulk when it makes sense. Are you planning a canning project or want to stock your freezer for the winter? Ask about ordering a peck of tomatoes or a flat of strawberries in advance. This makes setup easier for the grower, who can then prepare your order in advance. Sometimes farmers offer deals on bulk purchases.

Pre-order when you can. If there’s a loaf from your favorite baker that always sells out, ask about placing an order (and paying) ahead of time. Many farmers and producers are happy to set things aside for a regular. 

Bring the whole family. Farmers markets are one of the best places to teach kids where food comes from. Let them ask questions, smell things, and pick out something for dinner. You’ll be making memories and building values and knowledge that will stick long past the farmers market visits.

Put your phone away. Farmers markets are the ideal “third places”! Research from the Farmers Market Coalition found that people have 15 to 20 social interactions during a typical farmers market visit, compared to just one or two at a grocery store. That’s not a small thing. Those connections matter for your health and your community. Don’t scroll past them.

The don’ts

Don’t shop before the bell rings. Opening times exist for a reason. They give market staff, farmers, and producers time to set up and be prepared, leveling the playing field for everyone. Trying to shop before the opening bell is the farmers market equivalent of banging on a store’s locked door at 8:55am when it doesn’t open until 9:00am. Not a great look.

Don’t bargain. Farmers price their goods based on what it actually costs to grow, harvest, and haul everything to market. Prices are set and displayed accordingly. Farmers have no interest in haggling, and pressing the point will only make everyone uncomfortable.

Don’t complain about prices out loud. If something costs more than you expected, use your inside voice. Farmers operate on very slim margins, and a lot of work goes into every item in their stand. Prices reflect the true cost of what it takes to get food from farm to plate! Also worth noting: at peak season, you’ll often find that farmers market prices are competitive with — or cheaper than — the grocery store.

Don’t ask where the bananas are. Or you can ask! But be ready for a friendly explanation about local sourcing and why you won’t find tropical fruit, citrus, or other products not suited to our climate. The Mid-Atlantic grows an incredible variety of produce across the seasons, but it will never look exactly like a supermarket produce aisle. 

Don’t rearrange pre-packed containers. If the pints are already packed, leave them as they are. If you’re looking for something specific — a bigger container, less bruising — just ask. The farmer will hook you up.

Don’t bring an anxious dog. Crowds, strange smells, lots of noise: markets can be a lot for sensitive animals. If you must bring yours, keep them on a tight leash, keep your visit short, and please, please make sure they don’t relieve themselves in any of the stalls. (Yes, it happens. No, it is not okay.)

Go with an open mind

The best farmers market trips aren’t the ones where you stick rigidly to a list. They’re the ones where you show up with curiosity and let the season guide you. Grab a copy of the What’s in Season Shopping List at the Market Info Tent, hang it on your fridge, and let it inspire you, but be ready for delicious surprises.

Farmers markets are more than produce. At many markets you can do a full shop, picking up seasonal produce, local honey, farmstead cheeses, grass-fed proteins, creamline milk, pastured eggs, artisan bread, small-batch kombucha and ferments, handmade pasta, freshly roasted coffees, heirloom flours, beans, and grains. The variety is remarkable, and everything is fresher than its supermarket counterpart. What’s more, by buying directly from the people who grew or made it, you’re shortening your supply chain, keeping your dollars circulating in the community, and helping to build a strong Mid-Atlantic food system.

So come hungry, come curious, and come ready to shake the hand that feeds you and make new friends.

Shop with us every week! Check out our schedule to find a FRESHFARM farmers market near you.