Farmers' Markets Coming Soon!

Well, I don't know about anyone else, but I am practically giddy thinking about the opening of Woodstock's Farmers' Market on May 3rd!

It will be open from 8am - 1pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays through October. One of the nice things about this particular market is that it is a producers' market, meaning that only items raised or made by a local farmer can be sold. This helps keep the market from becoming a craft fair, or a venue for out of state producers to sell their goods.

No, this is a place where one knows that the items purchased are locally raised, locally made and the dollars spent are going into the local economy.

And, did you know that the Woodstock Farmers' Market accepts Link Cards? This means that anyone, regardless of his or her economic situation, has the opportunity to purchase fresh, local produce and meat.

For those who have never visited a Farmers' Market, here are a couple of tips for that first trip:

1. Walk through the entire market to see what is available and to compare quality and prices. Over time, most people develop an affinity for specific vendors, but on that first visit it's good to give everything a once-over before making the first purchase.

2. Bring reusable bags. The vendors have bags, but it feels very chic to carry a canvas bag or two through the market, and to pack it full of fresh, local items. Plus, its good for the Planet!

3. If one won't be taking the produce home right away, keep a small cooler in the car to store the day's purchases until they can be refrigerated.

4. Set a budget for each visit. This helps to ensure that one doesn't buy more than can be eaten before the next market trip. Trust me, there is nothing sadder than putting an heirloom tomato into the compost bin!

5. Try something new each time. The world of produce is quite amazing - beets for instance are not just for pickling! I like to wrap mine in foil and bake them until soft, then slip the skins off and use them sliced in salads. (Or I just eat them hot out of the oven -- the small ones are so sweet!)

6. Don't be afraid to ask. The producers - and/or their staff - are there to answer questions. They will help with suggestions on how to prepare items that may be unfamiliar, and will fill one in on the special characteristics of each different heirloom variety -- which tomatoes are better for making sauce or best sliced in a salad.

Woodstock may have the most robust market in the area, but it is by no means the only one! Starting in May 2011, Harvard will have a market on Ayer Street Saturdays from 8am - 1pm. Crystal Lake and Huntley will have markets on Saturdays again this year, but won't be starting until June.

For more information about the variety of local food available in the area, check out www.localharvest.org! Happy eating!