There are lots of things to love about spring. Warmer weather, sunnier days, blooming flowers. And one of our favorite things – it means farmers markets will soon be in full swing! Shopping at farmers markets allows you to meet the people who grow your food, buy produce when it’s in-season, and maybe find a new favorite fruit or vegetable. Here are some helpful tips for shopping at farmers markets:

• Make a list but be flexible. Go to the market with a general plan of what you want. But be open to getting other foods, especially if what you originally wanted isn’t there or if there are better deals on something else.
• Know before you go. A lot of markets have websites, email newsletters, and social media posts so you can check out what might be available before leaving home.
• Browse before you buy. Take a look at all the stands before you buy anything. Some booths may have lower prices or better variety than others. Also look for discounts on “ugly” produce that’s every bit as tasty and nutritious.
• Don't buy too much. It’s easy to get carried away with all the terrific options at the market. But take a moment to think about how long things will last, what you and your family will actually eat, and how much you need. You can always get more next week!
• Focus on fruits and veggies. Fruits and vegetables are great to buy at the farmers market because they are in-season. This means there’s a good chance they’ll taste great and cost less than produce that’s not in-season.
• Ask questions. Don't know what something is or how to prepare or store it? Not sure which payments are accepted or how to use SNAP benefits at the market? Just ask! Farmers, volunteers, and employees will be happy to help.
• Look for recipes on Eat.Move.Save. Go to ourRecipes page to find delicious recipes to make with the foods you find at the market.

Find a Farmers Market Near You

• Finding a farmers market in your area is easy when you use the Find Food Illinois Map on our website. Just enter your city or zip code and turn on the Farmers Markets filter. You can even search for ones that accept SNAP/LINK, LINK Match, and WIC. 
• A full list of farmers markets across the country and within Illinois can be found on the MarketMaker website. The filters at the top of the page can help you find one near you.
• The Illinois Department of Human Services has a list of farmers markets that accept the Illinois Link Card.

Using SNAP at the Farmers Market

Ways to pay depend on the market itself as well as individual vendors. There’s usually a mix of cash, credit and debit cards, SNAP and WIC. In fact, there are over 100 farmers markets and farm stands in Illinois that accept SNAP benefits. Each one is a little different in how they accept SNAP, so don’t be afraid to ask. Did you know that many markets will double SNAP benefits, so your dollar goes even further? This is a great way to stock up and save money. With your SNAP dollars, you can buy:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products
• Breads and cereals
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
• Seeds and plants to grow your own food in your indoor or outdoor garden

Whether you’re a regular shopper at the farmers market or just thinking about going for the very first time, take these tips with you next time you go. They’re sure to help you find something the whole family will enjoy!