CSAs versus farmers markets—a little something for everyone

Where do you buy your food—from a CSA farm or a local farmers market—and what’s the difference? Is there one? Both offer many of the same things—a variety of fresh and local foods, community interaction, and exposure to new ideas and ways of preparing food. They also offer organic foods and lesser known varieties, and many CSA farms sell their products at their own farm stores as well as at local farmers markets. So, do they differ? According to two bloggers, the points of difference rest more with the size of your family, time, convenience, and budget. CSA shares require commitment and farmers markets offer flexibility. Both have benefits and both have diehard loyal supporters. Read more here and here.

Well, in Northfield, you don’t need to choose between them. Both are available and in plenty, in town and in the surrounding area. Read more here. There are many CSA farms within 10 miles of town that sell fruits and vegetables, herbs, and Christmas trees, as well as eggs, pork, beef, and lamb. And, within walking distance are two farmers markets available downtown from May through October. The Northfield Farmers Market is open Tuesdays and Fridays from 11:45am-1pm and Saturdays from 9 am-1 pm. And the Riverwalk Market Fair Saturdays from 9am-1pm. To see what keeps bringing people back, go here and here.

So, however they differ, both CSA farms and farmers markets offer quality products at reasonable prices in family friendly settings.

CREDIT: www.localharvest.org

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