Maximize Your Farmers Market Trip With These Tips



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The bustle of the crowd, the vibrant colors of fresh fruit that perfumes the air, and the jungle green of potted plants enticing you to take “just a few” home with you. We can’t deny the allure of a farmers market – from the sweet and savory treats, to the expertly crafted jewelry, home decor, dazzling flower arrangements and so much more.
Whether it’s sustainable growing practices, supporting local small businesses or enhancing your diet with the freshest ingredients, there’s many reasons to shop at your local farmers market.
Now that spring has arrived, the flowers are in bloom (we dread the pollen count), and that means the return of the Virginia Highland farmers market will see a rush of people with weather finally permitting. If your kids finally get a school break, and you decide to skip out on your weekly grocery shopping in the hopes of a better deal, here are a few helpful tips and tricks when it comes to making the most of your trip.
This Weekend: Visiting The Virginia Highland Farmers Market


From April 13 through June 22, come visit the Virginia Highland Farmers Market in Atlanta, open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Be sure to check your weekend forecast before you head out.
There will be tons of great vendors to browse, including arts and jewelry, produce farmers, baked goods, home decor and more. For example, if you’re into ceramics and handmade pottery, June Bug Ceramics creates unique bowls, tumblers, flower vases and even candle holders.
If your stomach is rumbling and you love a Southern classic, check out the stand for Eggalicious, a gourmet deviled egg vendor slated to attend on April 13. And if you want to brighten up your home with a fresh bouquet of flowers, take a peek at the Tiny Matters Farm Instagram page for a ‘lightning’ strike of inspiration.
If you wish to become a vendor, volunteer to support the farmers market or donate to help support the fresh food mission, check out the Virginia Highland Farmers Market website for more information.
Where To Visit
Address: Virginia-Highland Elementary School, 774 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA
Free parking available in the school parking lot and along Virginia Ave NE.
Note: Pets are not allowed on the market grounds, so be sure to leave your furry friends at home for this trip.
Tips To Save Money At A Farmers Market
Now that you know which farmers market to visit in Atlanta, here are a few tips and tricks to save a little cash on your upcoming trip.
1. Buy in bulk
Buying produce in bulk could snag you some discounts or a version of the “buy-three-get-one-free” deal. Don’t hesitate to ask if you’re looking to buy a cluster of products at once.
2. Buy imperfect produce
If it’s going into your tummy, why bother what it looks like? Often called “ugly”, imperfect produce might not fly off the shelves at a normal grocery store, but at a farmers market, this could be a great way to get farm-fresh produce at a slightly lower cost.
3. Shop late in the day
After a long morning selling produce or flowers, many vendors won’t necessarily want to pack up their goods to take back to their shops or farms, especially products that don’t have a long shelf life. Vendors may be more inclined to bargain, especially on imperfect produce, in exchange for the convenience.
4. Bring your own bags
Not only is it more environmentally friendly to bring reusable grocery bags, not all vendors choose to provide bags to take away your produce or baked goods. We suggest keeping a few on hand in your trunk to whip out when the time is right.
Sunny Day Products To Make Your Farmers Market Trip Easier
Sunny days call for a little extra sun protection. While you browse through vendor stalls, be sure to keep your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses handy. These must-have sunny day accessories can be stored in your car, backpack or purse.
Price: $27.99


Creative Green Life XL Insulated Reusable Grocery Bags
(Amazon)
Features:
- Reinforced stitching and handles
- Insulated interior to keep groceries and beverages cold
- Holds up to 30L
- Bottom flap folds for compact storage
- Machine washable
Price: $28.99 (plus additional 5% off coupon)


BeeGreen Animal Lover Reusable Grocery Bags
(Amazon)
Features:
- 12-pack with different patterns plus one storage bag
- Can hold up to 50 pounds of groceries, according to company
- Machine washable
Price: $23.95 at Amazon; $24.99 at Ulta


Sun Bum Road Tripper
(Amazon)
Features:
- Comes with SPF 30 lotion, face stick and lip balm
- SPF 30 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Water resistant for 80 minutes
- Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, cruelty-free and vegan
- Tips: apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every 2 hours
Price: $12.99


EINSKEY Wide Brim Sun Hat
(Amazon)
Features:
- 22 color options
- Elastic drawstring and adjustable chin strap
- Wide brim for face coverage
- Water-repellent fabric
- Hand wash and hang to dry
Price: $23.99 (2-pack)


SUNGAIT Vintage Round Sunglasses
(Amazon)
Features:
- 30 combinations of color and bundle options
- UV400 protection non-polarized lens
- TR90 material bends under pressure without breaking, according to company
- Lightweight materials
Price accurate and item in stock at time of publish.
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