The array of colors, the smells of flowers, tacos, and lavender soap tantalize the senses.    The bustle of open air markets so common in Europe is now part of the daily fare in many American cities.  The farmers market cuts out the middle person to bring fresh vegetables and other sundry items directly to the consumer. 

Imparting a festive aura and a sense of returning to yesteryear, the farmer’s market is an opportunity for the entire family to mingle and absorb the flavors of the various stands.  Vendors are eager to offer advice and information on their products.  From bee keepers, salsa makers, to wild rice gatherers, this weekend event usually held during the summer and fall, is a learning opportunity for everyone.

 The Minneapolis Farmer’s Market located at East Lyndale Avenue North has a long history.  Started in 1876 as a small outdoor fruit and vegetable market located at 1st Street and Hennepin Avenue at a time when fresh produce was limited.  "To ensure a purchase," it was common practice for customers to ’solidify a deal’ well before the market’s official opening at 6 A.M. Sometimes sellers would have most of their produce sold before the opening time so that when the opening bell rang, it became a frenzy for whatever little goods remained.  That market closed at that location in 1891 and was relocated to 3rd Avenue North and 6th-7th streets.  In 1894, the market was destroyed by fire and rebuilt at its present location.  By 1916, the Minneapolis market had become the largest distributing center for fruit in the country. 

 Today the 172 stalls market is home to 250 instate and out-of-state vendors that sella a variety of items including fruits, vegetables, flowers, breads, maple syrup, honey,cheese, wild rice, salsa, hand-made tortillas, eggs, fish and other meats. Prices are reasonable from $1 to $5 per bundle of produce and all are fresh.  Unlike the grocery stores, you have the opportunity to speak with the producers so you know exactly where your food came from and how it was produced.

MDM’s Find of The Day, pictured at left, is home spun honey and fresh honey comb from the Ames Farm located in Watertown, Minnesota.  The owner, Brian Fredericksen, displays the busy honey-making bees themselves and explains the variety of delicious honey mixes available to customers while their children engage in trying to locate the queen bee.

This Weekend Go To Your Local Farmer’s Market and Enjoy!

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