Are you planning to buy farm-raised meats, fresh produce and locally-made crafts in Tennessee this summer? If so, visiting a Tennessee farmers market near you may be the best way to go about purchasing groceries. Warmer seasons coincide with the opening of farmers’ markets, which offers customers the chance to buy fresh seasonal products directly from farmers who grew them. Not only will you be able to pick out fresh, locally-grown goods, but you’re also given the opportunity to support the farms in your community. Farmers’ markets are typically designated places where farmers can sell their produce to clients directly.
If you are searching for delicious, sustainable and ripe groceries, your nearby farmers market in Tennessee is the ideal place to shop. You can purchase all types of fresh seasonal produce at your local farmers’ market. They sell spices, fruits, vegetables, animal produce such as milk and eggs, and of course, farm-raised meat! Visit any of these Tennessee farmer’s markets to enjoy the best produce the state has to provide.
Why Shop at Farmers Markets in Tennessee
There are many advantages to purchasing locally-grown foods at your nearby farmers’ market. With the Tennessee farmers market in full swing this summer, you should learn about these advantages and leverage everything that the farmers market has to provide.
Without further ado, here are the major reasons why you should opt for a farmers market in Tennessee when shopping for your groceries!
Supporting Local Farmers and Economy
Factory farms have taken the farming industry by storm, thus pushing the small family farms to shut down. But when you buy groceries at a farmers market, you support the small-time, local producers who cannot compete with big brands. This way, they obtain better compensation for their produce as opposed to when they sell to major grocery chain stores.
Buying directly from growers removes the middleman and boosts profitability. This helps farmers to compete and remain in business, which also supports your local economy.
Freshness and Quality of Products
Farmers generally sell their freshest and ripest veggies and fruits, which have maximum nutritional value. You will also enjoy a lot of seasonal foods produced in a conducive environment which they should. The produce spends less time moving from the farm to a nearby farmers’ market in Tennessee, so you don’t have to worry about the products staying one or two days in the store.
The products from your local farmer’s markets in Tennessee are, frankly, fresh. Since it was grown locally, there is a likelihood that the greens you purchased from the farmer were harvested yesterday. This is nearly impossible in a big grocery store.
Seasonal and Unique Offerings
By shopping at Tennessee farmers market, you will consume seasonally, ripe and fresh, boosting your overall health. Major grocery stores provide a wide range of products that are picked before they have ripened, thus minimizing their nutrients and vitality.
The good news is that every season has something to offer, from fresh spring peas to berries and crisp apples in summer. While it is convenient to purchase seasonal vegetables and fruits all year round, some nutritionists argue that eating fruits during their harvest period is healthier for your body. It also helps to connect with nature better, and makes more sense too!
Top 3 Farmers Markets in Tennessee
A farmers market can be a fun and great way to purchase local, high-quality food and Tennessee has no shortage of them. Here is a list of our favorite farmers’ markets in Tennessee, you need to check out:
1. Franklin Farmers Market, Franklin TN
The Franklin Farmers Market is a real Tennessee farmers market. From baked products, veggies to fruits, you will enjoy a variety of fresh food at the Franklin Farmers Market. And since it is all obtained from the local farms, the variety of produce increases and changes every week throughout the seasons.
You will note the taste difference, since it all comes direct from the farm to the Franklin market, ready and ripe to enjoy. It’s Tennessee farm fresh produce from real growers, every Saturday morning at the Franklin Farmers Market. Plus, there are lots of local handmade items at the market too, with beautiful and unique products to enjoy.
2. Nashville Farmers Market
If you are searching for a place to buy fresh, locally-grown produce in Tennessee, then you need to head over to the Nashville Farmers Market. Situated right next to Bicentennial Park, this market is a perfect place to shop for farm and handmade items downtown. If you are not a cooking fan, don’t fret! This market also has an indoor food court offering various delicacies that will surely satisfy your cravings.
3. The Chattanooga Farmers Market, Chattanooga TN
This Tennessee Farmers market situated in Chattanooga isn’t just a great place to shop, but also listen to live music! You can go here to eat local breads, cheeses, meats, produce and more, only at Chattanooga Farmers Market. Since this is a producer-only market, you are sure to buy goods grown or made by the vendors themselves.
Tips for Shopping at Tennessee Farmers Markets
A farmers market is an effective way to get your family to shop together because there is always something for everyone. That said, the market comes with a lot of options which may seem confusing or overwhelming. Whether you are a first-timer or a pro, here are our best tips for getting the most out of the farmers market in Tennessee.
- Begin with a lap around before purchasing anything to help you obtain an idea of all the vendors have to provide.
- Understand your seasons to know what type of vegetables and fruits to expect when you go to the market.
- Plan your meals ahead of time to help you save money and time since you will understand which items to buy and their costs.
- Talk to the farmers: most vendors will be happy to tell you about produce, including how they have grown it.
- Bring reusable bags and small change: You need to have big bags to put your purchases in; we highly recommend you bring exact or close exact money for what you are planning to purchase. This will make your shopping experience pleasant and worthwhile.
Wrapping Up
Tennessee’s farmer’s market culture is diverse and vibrant, showcasing the state’s rich agricultural heritage and it’s dedicated to supporting local producers and farmers.
A fascinating way to contribute to the local economy and community, the farmer’s market is an integral part of the food nexus in Tennessee. If you are searching for fresh, high-quality and pesticide-free produce, Tennessee has several farmers’ markets to explore.
In addition to locally-grown fresh produce, many Tennessee farmer’s markets also feature artisan crafts, specialty food vendors, and food trucks. This provides visitors with a wide variety of products to buy and sample.
