Nothing Beats Farmers Markets’ Freshness

As a state with a whole lot of farmland, Indiana is blessed with an abundance of seasonal produce every year. Spring is known for asparagus, lettuces, greens, and herbs. Summers bring bright, juicy berries, other sweet fruits, and a bounty of all kinds of vegetables.

Now fall is just around the corner. And, if you’re wondering what fresh finds you can look forward to this autumn, we have an abundant list for you. 

If you are wandering through one of the many local markets this month, you’ll see some end-of-summer favorites, like arugula, lettuces, and cruciferous veggies including broccoli, Brussel sprouts, and cabbage. Have some soup or roasting recipes on hand to make use of the carrots, parsnips, celery, garlic, onions, and plentiful greens. 

The great thing about September in Indiana is that we still have access to summer veggies like cucumbers, zucchini, spinach, and tomatoes—and savory herbs such as basil and cilantro. Fruits are still abundant, as well, so head to fresh local markets for apples, pears, and, if the weather cooperates, maybe even melons.

Do you have a favorite farmers market you head to every week or weekend? There are many to choose from, no matter where you are in Indiana. In Hancock County alone, we have access to multiple local farms with marketplaces open year-round, as well as weekend and weekday markets. Here are some of our favorites:

The Farmers Market at the Fairgrounds in Greenfield is one of Hancock County’s largest. Here you’ll find vendors selling an abundance of seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as meats and other prepared food. Abbott’s Garlic and Poultry, Berry Goods Farm, Daisy Hill Farm, Blue River Natural Foods, Sugar Creek Mushrooms, and The Pork Shoppe are just some of the vendors setting up shop at the fairgrounds. The market is open 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday.

Open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, May through October, this small-but-robust market is located at Cumberland Town Hall. It offers a great mix of local foods and fresh produce, as well as fresh-cut flowers, handmade soaps, and more.

Held at the Hancock Wellness Center in New Palestine every Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m., this is a great way to hit up some local produce during the week when your weekend treasure trove has been gobbled up. Here you can find eggs, bee products, fruits, vegetables, meats, candles and soaps, and even a place to sharpen your knives. This market ends for the season on September 28.

Just because the height of summer is coming to a close doesn’t mean we should stop supporting our local farms and taking pleasure in the abundance of local foods available. Supporting local farmers is key to having a well-rounded and healthy community. Find a farmers market near you, grab your favorite recipes, and see what you can cook up!