Tomatoes, zucchini and watermelon, oh my!

The summer’s bounty is beginning to pour in, and one of the best places to enjoy local produce is the Marietta Square Farmer’s Market, held Saturday mornings from 9 to noon and Sunday afternoons from 12:30 to 3:00. Though the market has start times listed, arrive early for the best produce. Many vendors are already set up and shoppers are scooping up free-range eggs, delicious bacon and more.

If you haven’t enjoyed the market before, here are some first-time tips:

• Bring reusable bags. Some vendors will have plastic bags and some won’t. If you plan on buying different types of products, bring the appropriate bags. For example, meat and veggies should have separate bags. If you’re planning on purchasing cheese, eggs or meat, consider bringing an insulated bag.
• Bring cash, and try to have small bills and change. In the age of debit cards, many of us only have the crisp $20 we pick up from the ATM. Stop by a coffee shop or breakfast joint on the way in and break that $20 up. Many small farmers won’t have a lot of change on hand.
• Bring an open mind. There is all sorts of produce at the market, some from local farms and some from parts farther away. If you want to buy local and in-season, ask the vendor where the produce comes from. Many farmers love to talk about their growing methods, and may even share recipes with you if you’ve never tried a certain type of food.

Traton Homes builds in several communities convenient to the Marietta Square, including Rockford Township. The location is unbeatable, letting residents enjoy leisurely strolls down tree-shaded streets to some of the best restaurants and unique shops Marietta offers.

Want to get an idea of what is offered at the market this year? Visit the Marietta Square website where a list of vendors is updated weekly.

Do you have any tips for market first-timers?