Since May, I have shopped at the Farmer's Market in Wenatchee on Saturday mornings.

Freshly picked berries, cucumbers, green beans, cherries, peaches, apricots, corn, pears, apples, squash....the flavor is wonderful.

"Farmer's market cucumbers taste much better than cucumbers sold by grocery stores," I told Karen. "They are bred for good flavor, not for shipping durability and long storage."

Taste real flavors – The fruits and vegetables available at farmers markets are among the freshest and tastiest produce available.

Enjoy the current season – Farmer’s markets will usually offer fruits and vegetables that are currently in-season, and by extension, as close to natural as can be. By eating seasonal produce you will reconnect with the cycle of nature, the weather, and change of seasons.

Supports local farmers – Small farms are not as popular as they once were. Because large agribusinesses dominate food production, local farmers are often in need of our support. Frequenting local farmers markets will directly impact their business and give them much deserved support.

Protects the environment – Foods grown on small farms are usually produced by methods that do not have a substantial negative effect on the earth.

All-natural – Most food at a farmer’s market will not contain any added chemicals and are grown using the most naturally sustainable techniques.

Wide variety - I didn't know there were so many types of pears. Delicious!

Confidence in your food sources – You can find out exactly where their farm is located, their growing methods, and what other foods his or her farm offer.

Learn tips and recipes – Farmers are generally very helpful with providing free advice on the best ways to enjoy their products.

Enjoy the Outdoors – Attending an outdoors farmers market can make grocery shopping a much more enjoyable experience. Strolling around an outdoor market can be a great stress reliever and wonderful way to get away from the big city hustle and bustle.

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