From farm to fork: The ultimate cheat sheet for farmers’ market newbies
Let us paint you a picture. It’s Saturday morning. The smell of fruits, flowers and fresh air fills the air. You feel the sun on your skin, the wind in your hair. And everywhere you turn, there’s another friendly face. For the farmers’ markets enthusiasts out there – like our very own co-founder, Gary Peer – you know the feeling well. And chances are, you already have plans to hit up your local this weekend. But if your experience with the markets extends only as far as when ‘this little piggy’ went, you’re probably wondering what all the fuss is about. Which is why we’re sharing the who, what, where, when and why in this crash course in Melbourne markets.
WHY should I shop at farmers’ markets?
If we were to draw up a pros and cons list of farmers’ markets, the only con would be that they don’t happen every day.
Where else would you get the chance to talk about the food you’re about to eat, with the person who grew it?
Farmers’ markets promote sustainability, preserve rural livelihoods and stimulate local economies. Plus, they’re the perfect excuse to get out and about in the community, and add a touch of socialisation to your usual shopping experience.
And there’s no surer way to support our local, hard-working community.
WHO can I see at farmers’ markets?
Just about every man and his dog will be at your local weekend markets. Seriously.
There’s a special quality about farmers’ markets that encourages socialisation. And it’s not something you can experience anywhere else.
Because let’s be honest – at your local supermarket, you’re just trying to get in, buy your groceries, then get out. As quickly as possible.
But at the farmers’ markets, you’ll find yourself wanting to wander. Speak to the vendors, catch up with your neighbours, and take a breath of fresh air (literally).
Want to test that theory? Head to your local farmers’ market this weekend, and watch your inner social butterfly emerge from its cocoon.
WHAT do I do at a farmers’ market?
With so much to see, smell and taste at your local farmers’ market, you’ll want to do it all.
But, to make the most of your market, here are our top tips:
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Know what’s in season: Generally, produce that’s in season sells for the best prices. Not to mention, who doesn’t want to eat their food when it’s at its freshest?
- Plan your meals ahead of time: It’s easy to get swayed by all the tempting smells and samples – but shopping with your heart instead of your head could result in far more casualties in your crisper than necessary. So have a plan and get products you know you’ll use.
- Try before you buy: If there are taste tests up for grabs, take advantage of it! Not only will you get to know the product – and the vendor – better, but you’ll get free food! It’s a win-win.
- Take a walk on the mild side: Markets are made to be enjoyed. So slow down, explore, and if there are roses present? Stop to smell them. And while you’re looking around, keep an eye out for the best deals.
- Get to know the produce – and the vendors: If there’s one rule of farmers’ markets, it’s this: ask questions! Farmers and growers are a passionate bunch. So if you’ve got a question about their product – how it’s grown, its origins, its taste, how to prepare it – voice it!
WHERE and WHEN are my local farmers’ markets?
We thought you’d never ask.
Put your new-found skills into practice at your next farmers’ market. And if you go to one of the following, you might even catch a Gary Peer team member there:
- Bayside Farmers’ Market: Jetty Road, Trey Bit Reserve, Sandringham 3191. Occurs on the fourth Saturday of the month, from 8am to 1pm.
- Bentleigh Farmers’ Market: 90 Bignell Road, Bentleigh East Primary School, Bentleigh East 3165. Occurs on the fourth Saturday of the month, from 8am to 12:30pm.
- Boroondara Farmers’ Market: Auburn Road, Patterson Reserve, East Hawthorn 3123. Occurs on the first, third and fifth Saturdays of the month, from 8am to 1pm.
- Brighton Farmers’ Market: 228 New Street, St Andrew’s Church, Brighton 3186. Occurs on the third Saturday of the month, from 8:30am to 1pm.
- Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Community Market: Kambrook Road, Caulfield Racecourse Reserve, Caulfield East 3145. Occurs on the first Sunday of the month, from 9am to 2pm.
- Elwood Farmers’ Market: 49 Scott Street, Elwood Primary School, Elwood 3184. Occurs on the second and fourth Saturday of the month, from 8:30am to 1pm.
- Gasworks Farmers’ Market: 21 Graham Street, Gasworks Arts Park, Albert Park 3206. Occurs on the third Saturday of the month, from 8am to 1pm.
- Gleadell Street Market: Gleadell Street, Richmond. Occurs every Saturday, from 7am to 1pm.
- Kingston Farmers’ Market: 285 Centre Dandenong Road, Kingston Health Reserve, Cheltenham 3192. Occurs on the first Saturday of the month, from 8am to 12:30pm.
- Veg Out Farmers’ Market: Chaucer Street, Peanut Farm Reserve, St Kilda. Occurs on the first Saturday of the month, from 8:30am to 1pm.