The sun is out and the temperature is rising! It’s summer and the Prairie Township Farmer’s Market is gearing up for opening day on June 10th. This season is proving to be the biggest yet for the 5th season! We have 17 vendors currently signed up, but will likely add a few more, 5 special events planned, and a food and sweet truck at all 13 dates. Vendors, food truck schedule and event information can all be found on the Farmer’s Market webpage under the Community Center.
Before you stop out to the market this year, I would like to give you ten helpful tips to provide the best possible experience when we see you this summer!
1. Information Tent
Say hi and check out important information about the market! We can answer any questions about the market and we will have upcoming event information, cooking demos, and recipes. We also give out tokens for credit cards (if vendors don’t take card) and EBT cards so you can purchase market items.
2. SNAP, Produce Perks and Senior Coupons
We accept EBT and participate in the SNAP and Produce Perks incentive program. Swipe your EBT card at the market information tent and we will give you tokens for the amount requested and then the same amount of tokens for free to be used on fruits and veggies. So spend $10 and get $10 in free fruits and veggies. Some vendors will also accept Senior Coupons. Stop by the information tent to find out which vendors accept them.
- Loop the Market
Farmer’s markets can be intimidating at first! Take your time. Circle the entire market and make a note of which booths you are interested in stopping at. Make large purchases right before you leave so you won’t have to worry about carrying them around at the market.
- Ask Questions
Vendors know all about their products. Don’t be afraid to ask about how the food was grown, pesticides used, how to cook with the produce and how to keep the food fresh.
- What’s in Season?
Farmer’s markets are different from grocery stores because they only have produce that’s grown in season. Knowing which fruits and veggies are in season will help you make the best purchase. We will have a chart at our information tent and the information is available on the Prairie Township Farmer’s Market website.
- Try Something New
A Farmer’s Market is a great place to learn about new foods and sample things you have never tried. Try something new and let the vendor know how you liked it the next time you are at the market.
- Bring the Kids
Our special events are great entertainment for the whole family. We have everything from the library, a petting zoo, face painting, balloon animals, corn eating contest, zucchini racers and touch-a-tractor throughout the season. Allow kids to talk to vendors, sample foods and pick out produce. It’s a great way to introduce them to new food!
- More than a Market
Make plans to spend time with friends and family at the market. Come early to get the freshest produce and stay for dinner and dessert from our food trucks. This year we will have more seating and some games outside for you to enjoy. Participate in the special events! Events are free and offer great family friendly fun. Get to know vendors and make new friends. Come often! Buy produce to last for a few days and come back the following week! The Prairie Township Farmer’s Market runs from June 10-September 9.
- Spread the Word
In order for the market to grow and thrive each year we need the support of the local community. Tell friends and family! Higher attendance numbers will see the benefit of new and returning vendors each year.
10. Have Fun
It’s summer! Enjoy the outdoors and the local community. Support local farmers and vendors and get some good eats and treats!