The Farmer's Market Code: Do’s, Don’ts & How Not to Be That Person

Farmer’s markets: the land of fresh heirloom tomatoes, awkwardly shaped carrots, and that one guy who insists on letting you taste every single sample (bless him). But let’s be honest—navigating your local market can be overwhelming if you’re not prepped. What do you say? When do you touch? Can you bring your dog? And why is that tomato $8?

Let’s break it down. Whether you’re a seasoned CSA queen or a produce newbie who just wants to 'romanticize your grocery run,' here’s your no-judgment guide to doing the farmer’s market right.

DO: Bring your own bags (yes, plural)

That cute little tote you got on Etsy? Love her. But she’s going to get real heavy, real fast. Think: peaches, eggs, three types of greens you didn’t plan on buying but were emotionally compelled to. Bring a few bags, maybe even one with structure (aka: a market crate or a boxy tote). Bonus points if you bring egg cartons or berry boxes back for reuse. Farmers love a low-waste king/queen.

Worried your tote bag full of local goodness is also carrying a receipt full of regret? These tips will help you shop smarter without sacrificing flavor.

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DON’T: Touch the produce unless it’s a “grab-your-own” situation

It’s not a Whole Foods. This isn’t a free-for-all. Some stands want you to point and they’ll pick; others let you dive in like it’s your own personal orchard. Look for signs, or just ask! (“Mind if I pick my own peaches?” = friendly, thoughtful, non-gremlin behavior.) Whatever you do, don’t squeeze five avocados like you’re testing stress balls. That’s a one-way ticket to a vendor’s blacklist.

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DO: Bring cash—and small bills

Some stands take cards or Venmo, but cash is still king in the field. Bonus tip: bring $1s and $5s. Don’t hand a farmer a $20 for a $2 bunch of cilantro at 8:01 AM. That’s a rookie move and your cilantro karma will suffer.

DON’T: Haggle like it’s a garage sale

Yes, that $8 tomato is giving luxury pricing—but you’re not just buying a tomato. You’re buying soil health, no pesticides, local labor, and a flavor explosion that’ll make supermarket tomatoes cry in their clamshells. Farmers aren’t making Bezos money off that stand. Be respectful. If it’s out of budget, say thank you and move on. Or just buy one and eat it like an apple. No regrets.

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DO: Ask questions

Farmers LOVE talking about their food. Ask what’s in season, how to cook the weird stuff (hello, kohlrabi), or whether those eggs came from truly happy hens. Even better? Ask what’s coming next week—you’ll get the inside scoop before the crowds do.

Pro tip: Want to make a vendor’s day? Ask how their season’s going. They’ll light up.

Not sure what to do with your rainbow of radishes and that impulse-buy fennel bulb? Here’s your cheat sheet for turning market finds into actual meals.

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DON’T: Park like a menace

We’re all excited. But there is no heirloom melon urgent enough to justify double-parking, blocking a stroller, or nosing your car into a vendor’s load-in zone. Channel your inner summer picnic vibe, take the extra minute, and park like a grown adult.

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DO: Shop the outer stalls and the center

Some people beeline for the first stand and never leave. Others zigzag like it’s Mario Kart. Pro tip? Do one full walk-through before you commit—prices and offerings vary. That said, don’t skip the corners. Some of the best deals and most interesting vendors are tucked away from the main cluster. (Looking at you, garlic scape lady. You’re doing great.)

DON’T: Treat the market like a content farm

Yes, it’s aesthetic. Yes, your basket of peaches and edible flowers deserves a photo. Just remember: this is someone’s business, not your picnic backdrop. Ask before taking close-up shots of a stand or tagging the vendor—most are thrilled, but it’s respectful to check first.

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DO: Go early for the goods, go late for the deals

Early birds get the figs. Latecomers might score a discount (or at least a generous bunch of herbs from a tired vendor who doesn’t want to haul things home). Both times have their perks—just don’t show up 5 minutes before close and expect the full rainbow.

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DON’T: Forget to say thanks

No one’s expecting you to pen a sonnet, but a simple “Thanks, these look amazing!” goes a long way. Show a little love.

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Shopping at a farmer’s market isn’t just about the produce—it’s about connection. With your food, your community, and maybe even that one jam vendor who gives out spoonfuls of magic.

So grab your bags, wear your sunhat like you mean it, and go flirt with a peach. Just… not literally.