Scenes of Vermont Blog

Farmer’s Markets and Farm Stands:

Connecting with Vermont’s Farmers While Supporting the Local Economy

Waitsfield Farmer's Market

One of the most enjoyable aspects of my Vermont excursions is to visit the state’s numerous farmer’s markets and farm stands. Although mid-May typically begins the official “season” and continues well into the heart of October’s razzle and dazzle of color, many farmer’s markets now operate throughout the winter months (indoors of course!). As the seasons turn, so do the selections. In the summer months, you can pick from locally grown vegetables, fruits, cheeses, flowers, baked goods, meats from local herds, maple syrup, flowers, breads, hand-crafted jewelry, crafts, wines and more. As autumn approaches, apples, jams, pumpkins, gourds, mums and Indian corn make their grand entry and enhance this bountiful display! To coin a favorite phrase of mine, another “feast for the eyes”, not to mention the palate!

As more people become concerned about the quality of their food, the trend towards visiting markets and stands has increased substantially over the years. Moreover, supporting local farmers is paramount. The “Buy Local” movement is gaining in popularity and everyone benefits: sellers and buyers alike. “As of the 2008 season, there were 64 farmer’s markets throughout Vermont. In addition, there are 11 winter farmer’s markets in the 2008-2009 season.” (NOFA – Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont).

Last fall, 2008, I happened across the Waitsfield Farmer’s Market. What a find!!! Not only was the day picture-perfect, the sights, smells and sounds of Vermont enveloped me in every “sense” of the word. The scene goes like this: A blazing autumn backdrop, a jazz band echoing against the hillside, cascades of perfectly arranged colorful goods and wares, tantalizing smells of delectable edibles from local vendors and restaurants and a crowd of joyful folks and frolicking pets as your constant companions. What more can you ask for on a sparkling fall day? The Waitsfield Farmer’s Market was surely a memorable event and one of the finest in the state.

http://www.waitsfieldfarmersmarket.com/ (If you click on entertainment, you can see who is performing now through October 24^th, 2009).

If you happen to miss the scheduled farmer’s market, perhaps you can visit the many farm stands that are open almost every day during the summer and fall months. For me, farm stands are more personal in nature. Away from the pleasant hubbub, crowds and fanfare of the farmer’s markets, you now have a one-on-one opportunity to connect with the farmer who has cultivated, harvested and carefully presented his produce and other goods for your viewing pleasure. You can find these farm stands along the main or side roads, smack in front of someone’s farm, home or growing field, or when you least expect it, there it is before you, as you ‘round the bend of a winding country road.

Farm stands are a perfect chance “to meet the heart and soul of Vermont.” I have listened with great interest as farmers talk about the sweat and tears put into their product, their farm’s history or stories of their Vermont roots.  I have even met their families on occasion.

Look down at your basket full of produce and perhaps you will observe, just beyond the farm stand, the same field from which it was grown or is still being harvested. What better way to see precisely where your food has come from! On my way through Eden last fall 2008, I passed a farm stand called the “Garden of Eden”. Although we didn’t have time to stop, it is on my itinerary for fall 2009!

"Garden of Eden" Farmstand, Eden, VT

Below is the website from the Vermont Agency of Agriculture in Montpelier.  They have lists of the farmer’s markets, farm stands, winter’s farmer’s markets, pick your own and also, the harvest dates! It is excellent! You can toggle back and forth to find exactly what you are looking for in every corner of the state.

www.vermontagriculture.com/buylocal/buy/farmersmarkets_map.html

The Vermont Farmers Market http://www.vtfarmersmarket.org/index.html states: “These markets not only provide an opportunity for you to ‘Buy Local’ and meet the grower/producer/creator face-to-face, they also create a festive, family-friendly place to shop, relax, listen to music, eat and enjoy the sunshine (with the occasional dash of rain).

Next time you are in Vermont, STOP, get out of your car and enjoy a farmer’s market, farm stand or farm store. Join in on the community spirit! You will be sure to come away with:

“Buy Local, Buy Vermont”

Vermont Agency of Agriculture 

Autumn Farm Stand