The Clarke County Farmers’ Market, located in Berryville Virginia, has an excellent do’s and don’ts list on their website.  Although many market visitors are seasoned localvores who know the ins and outs of local shopping, many people have never been to a farmers market and don’t know how to prepare.  Thanks to the Clarke County Market, newbies to the food movement can prepare for their visit and have an enjoyable shopping experience.  Here are some of their tips, taken direct from their webpage:

•DO bring a market basket, tote bag, or shopping bag for your purchases to make carrying easier.
•DON'T bring a list. Part of the fun of a farmers' market is to discover what vegetables and fruits are in season locally, what looks good and plan your meal accordingly.
•DO talk to us! We love telling you about our products. Ask for cooking tips or recipes.
•DO bring small bills and change if you can.
•DON'T expect to see corn in June or tropical fruits like oranges. This market is for locally grown produce only. Shoppers who get to know the market learn that strawberries are ready in June; blueberries and beans in July; corn, melons, and peaches in August; and apples and pumpkins in October.
•DO remember that you can get fixings for meals at the market like eggs, meats, a pie for dessert, and flowers for your table.
•DO stay awhile and enjoy the market. REMEMBER, supporting local agriculture and local farmers helps the farms and supports open spaces.

The Clarke County Farmers’ Market is a seasonal market, running May through October each year.  They have a great variety of vendors who bring with them fresh produce, eggs, dairy, healthy meats like free range pork and grass fed beef, baked good and prepared foods, plus so much more!  If you are market veteran, you might not need the do’s and don’ts list, however if you haven’t ever shopped a market, 2012 is the year to start!  Follow the great tips above and visit Clark County Market when they reopen in May.

Clarke County Farmers' Market
P.O. Box 1266
Berryville,Virginia  2261
Anita Vansice
anita@clarkecountyfarmersmarket.com
www.clarkecountyfarmersmarket.com

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