Stepping into a farmers market for the first time can be an exciting experience, especially when you realize how much fresh, local food you can access using your SNAP EBT benefits. We want to make sure you absolutely love it and keep coming back for more! Farmers markets are fantastic places to find the freshest local produce, connect with your community, and discover new favorite foods, all while making your food budget go further. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together some helpful tips:
- Before you go: Bring your shopping bags (and your EBT Card!)
This might seem obvious, but it’s super easy to forget! Before you head out, make sure you bring enough reusable shopping bags. Even more importantly, if you receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, remember to bring your EBT card! Many farmers markets across the country are authorized to accept SNAP EBT, making fresh, local food more accessible than ever. This is a fantastic way to stretch your food dollars while supporting local farmers.
- When you arrive: Head to the Information Booth
At most farmers markets, you’ll visit the information booth first to process your SNAP EBT card. The market manager or staff will swipe your EBT card for the amount you wish to spend and then provide you with market tokens or scrip that you can use at individual vendor stalls. These tokens often come in $1 or $5 denominations and work just like cash within the market. Don’t worry if you have leftover tokens – they usually don’t expire and can be used on your next visit!
What’s even better is that many markets offer incentive programs, like “Double Up Food Bucks,” that allow you to get more fresh produce for your SNAP dollars. For example, for every dollar you spend with your SNAP EBT card, they might give you an additional dollar (up to a certain amount) in special tokens to buy fruits and vegetables. Be sure to ask at the information booth if your market offers any such programs! They’re a friendly resource ready to help you make the most of your benefits.
- Before you buy: Walk around the market and take it all in.
It’s tempting to jump right in and start buying everything that looks good, but we recommend taking a moment to walk around the entire market first. This gives you a chance to see all the different vendors, compare prices, and get a feel for what’s in season. You might discover a unique vegetable you’ve never seen, find the perfect handmade jam. Plus, it’s a great way to soak in the vibrant atmosphere!
- Get curious: Ask the Farmers
One of the best parts about farmers markets is the opportunity to connect directly with the people who grow your food. Don’t hesitate to ask farmers their favorite ways to prepare items you might not have tried yet. Not sure how to cook a kohlrabi? Your farmer probably has a fantastic recipe idea or a simple cooking tip, so ask away!
- Most importantly: Have fun and enjoy your local food community!
Ultimately, visiting a farmers market is about more than just shopping; it’s about experiencing your local food community. Enjoy the sights, smells, sounds, pets, and friendly faces. If you have children, this is a fantastic way to introduce healthy food in a fun way.
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