Shop Local Farmers Markets In and Around Phoenix
Your guide to shopping local farmers' markets in the Greater Phoenix-area.
notable edibles
What to Take to the Farmers Market
When the weather is really hot or your day is especially busy, it can feel like a success just to get to the farmers market. But if you’re able to, doing a bit of planning before you head out the door can make a weekly trip more efficient for you and the farmers market vendors.
Get into the habit of grabbing these items for your farmers market visit:
A shopping list
Find out what’s in season (check out the guide in each edition of Edible Phoenix) and plan out some recipe ideas accordingly.
An open mind
Your shopping list is in hand, but you can’t find the butternut squash you listed at the top. Even if it is the right time of year for winter squash, maybe they haven’t ripened yet, maybe they didn’t grow well this year or maybe they are already sold out. Go in with expectations and a shopping list but be ready to adjust with what’s in season and available. Ask the farmer or vendor for alternatives to something you don’t see. Instead of butternut squash, the farmer might suggest delicata or acorn squash, maybe even sweet potatoes.
Your SNAP/EBT card and WIC checks
If you use a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Electronic Benefits Transfer card (SNAP EBT) or Women, Infant, Children (WIC) program checks, don’t leave them at home. Many farmers market vendors across the Valley are certified to accept them. Several markets are also a part of the Double Up Food Bucks Arizona program that allows customers to earn up to $20 after using their EBT card to purchase additional local fruits and vegetables. Learn more about the program and see if it is at your area farmers market at doubleupfoodbucksarizona.org.
Some cash
Most vendors and markets take debit and credit cards, but it can often be quicker and easier to exchange cash.
Your questions
Not sure what that vegetable is? Recognize kohlrabi on a farm’s stand, but aren’t sure how to use it? Ask the farmer or vendor. They don’t want people to simply buy their produce, they want people to fall in love with their produce! They’ll have ideas on how best to enjoy it and likely suggestions for other market items to combine with it.
Reusable bags or baskets
This keeps waste out of the landfill and can add up to save your vendors a bit of money. Some local markets and vendors are also moving towards not offering plastic bags. Several markets have artisans selling locally made baskets and bags. Consider some kind of insulated cooler (and ice packs) if you’re planning to buy meat or dairy or other items that should be kept cool and you’re not heading straight home after the market, or it’s one of those days over 100°.
Your cell phone
Having a great time? Tell others! Mention what you’ve purchased and why you’re buying from local vendors. Plenty of vendors and markets have Facebook and Instagram accounts. When you share a photo of the lovely produce you can’t wait to turn into a meal, you’re helping to spread the word about the quality products grown and made right here in Arizona. And don’t forget to tag #EdiblePhoenix on your Instagram posts; you just might see your post show up in a future edition!
Shop Local Farmers Markets In and Around Phoenix
Your guide to shopping local farmers' markets in the Greater Phoenix-area.
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