2 weeks Ago
What our kids consume is everything. Especially in an age where snacks and sugar are so prevalent, providing healthy groceries is an important part of our job as parents. Beyond traditional grocery stores or big-box stores, shopping at farmers markets allows for fresh food from local sources.
Most farmers markets in the Lowcountry also have music, art, drinks and a place for a community to come together to support local farmers and artisans. These markets also let children see first-hand where fresh produce comes from, and why it is important to support small businesses. Here are five great reasons to visit your local farmers market: Support for local farmers.
Shopping at farmers markets supports the small-time growers who can’t compete with big companies and factory farms. Plus, buying from them directly frees them from going to third parties in order to get into grocery chains. Also, speaking to the farmers directly helps to understand the hard work they put into growing organic and natural produce.
Great community experience. Farmers markets are great for bringing communities together. Many have bands playing music, activities for kids and some even have cooking demonstrations.
If there is a special holiday coming up, you can be sure the artisans will have decorations and crafts to celebrate. Fresh, organic produce. The goods sold at local farmers markets haven’t been shipped in on a boat or delivered on a truck.
The fruits and vegetables are picked from plants in fields not too far away. Also, the natural and organic methods used to grow these plants means they have less chemicals than those found in regular grocery stores. Unique shopping experience.
Along with buying fresh and organic produce, farmers markets also have other unique items for sale. Looking for a special gift for a dog lover? Some area markets sell healthy dog treats. Maybe you have a friend who just bought a new home? Check out local artwork for a one-of-a-kind item they can display in their new living room.
Other goods often found at farmers markets include baked goods and dessert treats, naturally-made honey or jellies, and hand-made soaps or bath bombs. There are so many fresh vegetables to choose from at local farmers markets. Pexels More ethical and environmentally friendly.
Growing fruits and vegetables in the most natural way is good for the land and surrounding plants. If you care about the environment, buying food at local farmers markets is a way to incorporate green practices into your life. Plus, local farmers treat their animals well so you can be sure that the farm-fresh eggs you buy are from free-range chickens.
The produce also comes from farms that are close by, which cuts down on transportation and makes for a smaller carbon footprint. Here is a list local farmers markets in the Charleston area. Charleston Farmers Market Saturdays from April to November, 8 a.
m. to 2 p.m.
329 Meeting St. • Charleston Goose Creek Farmers & Artisans Market Saturdays year-round, 9 a.m.
to 1 p.m. 519 N.
Goose Creek Blvd. • Goose Creek McClellanville Growers Market Saturdays, 9 a.m.
to 12 p.m. 711 Pinckney St.
• McClellanville Moncks Corner Farmers Market Thursdays from April to November, 3 p.m. to 6 p.
m. 418 E. Main St.
• Moncks Corner Mount Pleasant Farmers Market Tuesdays from April to September, 3:30 to 7 p.m. 645 Coleman Blvd.
• Mount Pleasant North Charleston Farmers Market Thursdays from May to October, 3 - 7 p.m. Park Circle Pavilion, 4800 Park Circle • North Charleston Sea Island Farmers Market Saturdays year-round, 9:30 a.
m. to 1:30 p.m.
2024 Academy Road • Johns Island Summerville Farmers Market Saturdays from April to November, 8 a.m. to 1 p.
m. 200 S. Main St.
• Summerville The Town Market on James Island Fridays from May to October, 6 - 9 p.m. 1122 Dills Bluff Road • James Island West Ashley Farmers Market Wednesdays, 3-7 p.
m., Spring to November Ackerman Park at 55 Sycamore Avenue • West Ashley.
