May Food Notes: It's Farmers Market Season!

After enduring an unwelcome extension of winter, spring has finally sprung in Michiana, and farmers market season is upon us!

Why do we so strongly crave the arrival of spring farmers markets? In part it is because we can finally nourish our overwintered bodies with a revitalizing array of freshly harvested produce—as well as bearing witness to the brief moments of glory emitted by those elusive, short-seasoned fares. But there's much more to it than that.

For starters, there’s the atmosphere. An abundance of positive energy, excitement, and inspiration billows into the community as we greet one another and celebrate our survival of another Michiana winter. It’s a huge breath of fresh air.

The atmosphere is a breeding ground for the tangible sense of community that comes alive at farmers markets in the springtime. You can feel the spirit of camaraderie in every transaction and there’s an immediate sense of belonging available to everyone.

In other words, we’re not only looking forward to farmers markets because we’re craving fresh food. We’re also craving the meaningful human connections themselves. It’s an ineffable feeling absent at supermarkets, even as many carry local and organic products.

Although the food sold in the organic section of supermarkets is certainly attractive, there is a raw beauty revealed by the food on display at farmers markets. Perusing tables blanketed by plump heirloom tomatoes with rainbow-colored skins dazzle the eye, while shockingly bright stalks of magenta-red rhubarb instantly make mouths water with the thought of the bitter tang turned sweet and inviting—like spring. It’s a potent reminder of the natural splendor and infinite variety in nature.

Spring farmers markets are a celebration of life, always emerging after faithfully maintaining the hopeful endurance of a barren season.

If you're in Southwestern Michigan or Northern Indiana, check out our listings to find a farmers market near you. Also, don’t forget to sign up for a CSA this year to recieve even more farm-direct goodness!