2)
Go early
(or stay late)
Markets tend to be less crowded right when
they open or just before they close. There
are many, many exceptions to this, so try
going to your market at different times to
figure out the best time for you.
For the best selection, go to the farmers
market early. The best goods go first.
Popular-but-limited items may even sell
out before the day is done. It's as simple as
that.
For the best deals, go to the farmers
market late. Farmers and other vendors
sometimes discount products instead of
loading them back up and schlepping
them home. But keep in mind farmers raise
this food for a living, so don't expect or
ask for deep discounts. Importantly, some
markets have rules against end-of-the-day
discounts.
3)
Bring Big Bags
& Small Change
Some farmers market vendors offer bags,
but they tend to be thin and flimsy plastic
ones that groan under the pressure of any
substantial produce purchase. Make sure
everything gets home safely by bringing
your own sturdy canvas or nylon bags. A
backpack can make the hauling easier,
especially for weighty or bulky items. RuMe
bags are great for farmers markets because
they fold small and carry tons.
Although vendors will make change,
purchases will go easier and faster if you
have exact (or close to exact) change. At
some farmers markets, "small change"
means dimes and nickels. In larger urban
areas many products at farmers markets
are sold in dollar or fifty-cent increments.
