Farmer’s Market Spotlight

With the climate crisis continuing to wreak havoc on our surrounding nature and planet, it is important to try and find ways to make your day-to-day activities more sustainable. One of the simplest changes you can make to your routine is shopping at the farmers market.

The farmers market has a selection of fresh locally grown produce as well as artisanal products. Not only is the produce often fresher and better quality than the options at chain grocery stores, but there are also goods which are unique to the farmers market, giving customers a shopping experience that differs from the norm.

In Santa Barbara County, The Santa Barbara Certified Farmers’ Market Association operates the farmers market in different spots across the county every day of the week except Monday. On Tuesdays, the market operates from 3:00-6:30 pm near Paseo Nuevo; on Wednesdays, it is located in downtown Solvang from 2:30-6:00pm;on Thursdays, you can find the Farmers Market in downtown Carpinteria from 2:30-6:30 pm; on Fridays, the market is in Montecito from 8:00-11:15 am; on Saturdays, it takes place at the intersection of State and Carrillo, and finally, on Sundays, the market is located in Goleta at the Camino Real shopping center.  Regardless of what part of the county you live in, at least once a week there should be a farmers market near you.

“I love the farmers market” said sustainable future club co-president, junior Caroline Wang “It’s really good to eat food that’s naturally grown and it’s nice to know that hard work went into the food you’re eating,” she continued. “Not only is the farmers market very cute, but it is great to  be able to support small businesses.”

Despite the environmental benefit of the farmers market, the price difference can discourage people. With local owners and small scale production, produce at farmers markets often comes with a hefty price tag. But the price tag supports sustainable produce, allows shoppers to talk to the seller directly and be more adventurous with their purchases. The extra cost goes directly back to the local economy fostering a stronger community.

So next time you need to grab something at the grocery store, consider branching out and head to the farmers market!