The local farmers' markets make a great outing with your kids! You can teach your kids about eating healthy, taste samples, buy a new vegetable for the first time, support farmers and the local economy, buy in-season produce, enjoy live music, classes, and more! Shop & eat Local!
Here are a few tips for shopping at a farmer's market:
- Do your research: If you want to buy local, seasonal produce, read about what is in season (versus purchasing imported items that you can get at the grocery store). Do you care whether it is organic, etc.?
- Get out early to get the best selection. I like to take a quick walk through the entire market before making purchases.
- Bring your own reusable totes and make sure you don't squash your purchases. Bringing your stroller or wagon helps, too, especially when your kids ask for a giant watermelon!
- Bring some $1 bills for the kids to make their own purchases.
- Ask questions. The farmers love to answer your questions, so don't be afraid to ask.
- Get more info. If you love a particular booth, sign up for their mailing list. Ask if they participate in a CSA (community-supported agriculture). Click here for a great article; 10 Things to Consider When Choosing a CSA for Your Family
- Take a drive. Make an outing of it and visit a different market each week. There are a ton within 30 minutes of home listed below!
Downtown/South Kansas City, Missouri:
Wyandotte and Leavenworth Counties, Kansas:
Northland Kansas City, Missouri:
Would you like to spotlight your farmers' market? Contact brittanym@macaronikid.com.
Do you host a farmers market you'd like to see listed, or know of a community market that shares fresh produce/food access with those in need? Please send the info along to Macaroni KID editor and publisher Melissa Basgall at melissabasgall@macaronikid.com
