To market, to market.

[hRebecca]

A locavore at heart, I absolutely love going to the Farmers Market in the summer. First, there’s the anticipation that I feel on my way there; will there be yellow squash this week? Is the corn ready? Then, there’s the joy of choosing from a veritable rainbow of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers as I go from stand to stand. And, finally, there is the satisfaction of knowing that I have done my part to support my local grower. I always leave the market with a full tote (or two) and a happy soul. It truly is my zen place.

Starting off, I wouldn’t dream of heading to a Farmers Market without the right eco-friendly shopping bag. This durable canvas tote by Blue Tulip fits the bill beautifully. Generously sized, and handmade from a cheerful 100% cotton print, this bag is ready to be loaded up with greens…and reds…and yellows!

In my not-so-humble opinion, nothing beats the taste of fresh, seasonal vegetables picked and enjoyed at their peak. These reusable mesh bags by Eco-Etsy member Love for Earth are the perfect companions for your veggie shopping. Must-haves at the Farmers Market for bagging-up everything from apples to zucchini, you’ll also want to take these with you to the grocery store year-round. Just be prepared to be the envy of your fellow shoppers!

I am absolutely smitten with these fun and fresh crochet veggie market bags by UrArtist. Each handmade bag is made from strong, easy-care acrylic yarn. They may look pretty, but they are sturdy enough to handle several ounces of produce. (I’d even be tempted to use one of these cuties as a mini-purse on a date or a trip to the mall and you can’t say that about traditional plastic produce bags!)

Sadly, the end of summer will mean the season-end for the Farmers Markets in my city. Until the vendors return with the first offerings of spring, I’ll have to be content with my memories of the sights, smells, and tastes of the market. I plan to hang this fine-art print by photographer Sara Norris in my kitchen as a daily reminder to eat my veggies. I’m sure it will bring a smile to my face, just as munching a fresh carrot while I browse the stalls at the market always does!

Making an effort to eat locally grown and produced food has become a big part of “going green” for me and my family. It supports our local economy, helps to reduce our carbon footprint, and often gives us a chance to try something new. (When was the last time you found purple broccoli at the supermarket?) Plus, getting a chance to meet and chat with the farmer who grew the squash and beans for our dinner just adds to my market experience. If you haven’t experienced it yet, you should! To find a farmers market in the US, visit Local Harvest. Canadians can check out the Canadian Market Directory for their local markets (including my favourite market in St Norbert, Manitoba).