We've been waiting for you at the farmers' market!
Beginning around early May until the cool days of October, Maryland’s Farmers’ Markets are full of wonderful people, delicious produce and fun activities. Come join us this summer and find out why the market is the place to be!
Where is the nearest market?
First things first! Find your local market. Check out this map to find a local farmers’ market, farm stand, or farm. Or, search for your favorite market or farm on social media.
What should I expect at the market?
Whether your market is large or small, there will be farmers and other vendors with produce and other items such as baked goods and crafts for sale. Purchasing produce at the market will support your local growers while ensuring you get the freshest fruits and vegetables available! Fresh, local produce has greater nutrient content than produce that was picked earlier or traveled a far distance to your grocery store. Before you go, take a look here to see what’s in season.
Should I bring my children to the market?
YES! If you have some extra time, allow your child to experience the market by following this Farmers' Market Scavenger Hunt. Children will enjoy the sights and smells of the busy market as they complete their Scavenger Hunt and look for a fruit or vegetable they wish to try. Take some time when you get home to taste it together or use it in a recipe for dinner! Search for a healthy SNAP-Ed recipe right here!
How do I pay at the market?
Some Farmers’ Markets accept SNAP or eWIC benefit dollars. The signs will be posted if the benefits are accepted. Some markets participate in matching programs, such as Maryland Market Money. This program matches your benefits, usually up to $10. Find a list of participating markets here.
Look for the Information booth or Market Manager Tent. They can tell you the following:
- Which benefits are accepted at the farmers’ market
- If they have any matching programs, like Maryland Market Money, to match your benefits
- How you receive your benefits and where you can spend them
- Where to find specific vendors or products
How do I spend my benefits?
Many markets will follow the procedure below, but it may be different at your market. Always check at the Information or Market Manager booth first.
SNAP
- Determine the amount you want to spend at the market.
- Slide your card; enter your pin.
- Receive your benefits. Many markets provide your benefits in tokens that can be used throughout the market season. This may not be true for your market, though. Always confirm first.
eWIC
eWIC must be used directly with a farmer. Look for signs that tell you which benefits they accept. To use WIC benefits, the participant pulls up a barcode on their phone, or presents a paper version of the bar code, and the farmer will scan it with his/her phone or tablet.
