While the pandemic rages around us, one basic trait of farmers’ markets has gained importance: Most take place in the open air. As one who is reluctant to go indoors anywhere except my own home, I appreciate farmers’ markets more than ever. Sure, the ambience and routines have changed. It’s discouraged (or impossible) to touch produce before buying. Shoppers tend to leave promptly after buying their goods. The banter between customers and sellers is sharply curtailed. While I miss the social aspect of markets, I appreciate them more than ever as a relatively safe place for shopping.
There are many other compelling benefits, such as the freshness and enhanced flavor of locally grown produce. The options this time of year couldn’t be better. During yesterday’s visit to a farm stand, I bought freshly picked Silver Queen corn, ruby red tomatoes and heirlooms speckled green and yellow, plump scallions, and juicy watermelons perfectly round as globes. It doesn’t take much effort to whip up a tasty meal, letting the flavors of these local crops do all the talking.
Watch this short video to discover what might be best to buy at your farmers’ market now, and then grab your basket (and mask!) and go.
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Open markets are the life blood of Paris. So happy to have them back.
You rarely could pick your own stuff so it doesnt matter all that much.
But all the color is such an upper. I try to go no matter whether I need something or not.
Its enticing
Yes, the colors and aromas of the open-air markets in France are incredible! I’m glad that they’re open again.
Beautiful and tempting photography, as always, Marjorie! My very favorite shot is the opening and closing one!
That’s sweet. Thank you!
Small, safe steps to regain community
What a good point, Neil. Thanks for adding this.
Read and weep! For whatever reason we live in a small town outside of Charleston SC. Now we have a Farmers Market but no produce! That’s right for some reason the market doesn’t attract vendors so it doesn’t attract buyers so it doesn’t attract……and on it goes. As someone who normally travels 50% of the time and loves Farmers markets (Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, Minneapolis/St. Paul etc.) or any other kind of market this is disastrous. I can’t read these articles nor can I sail in the Greek Islands right now!
No produce at a farmers’ market in South Carolina in the middle of August? That’s shocking. I feel your pain and also the loss of travel. Hoping that the situation changes soon in all regards.
Hello Marjorie,
We’ve exchanged thoughts before and as I recall you live near Boston, as I do. This has always been my fav time for the markets, but I’m a bit sad about not being able to select my own produce ( I know, embarrassingly privileged). Here’s my secret escape: Wilson Farms in Lexington. Not a whole lot has changed there since the pandemic. I sneak out there once a month. The produce is absolutely abundant. Many thanks for your posts about the markets here and in Paris.
Best,
JoAnn
Good to hear from you again, JoAnn. Wilson Farms is a gem. I haven’t been there since the pandemic began, but that’s one place that I’d feel safe shopping at–and glad to support. Thanks for the reminder that we’ve got many excellent options in the Boston area.