Don’t go to the farmers’ market just for the tamales! If you feel uncomfortable or intimidated by the farmers’ market, here are a few tips for making the most out of your experience.

Early bird gets the worm: As produce tends to sell out later in the day, timing is everything if you want the best selection. Markets are less crowded in the mornings as well, so going early is a good option if crowds make you uncomfortable.

Late customers get better deals: If you can’t make it to the farmers’ market early, don’t fret! Since farmers are setting their own prices, they may change them later in the day. This is because most produce is perishable. Make use of the last hour to stock up on deals.

Produce is overpriced: True, but there are ways to make the most of what is offered. Besides the fact that there can be discounts near closing hours, another cool part of the farmers’ market is that you can compare prices. If you don’t like the price of that kale, walk around and find another stand with a better deal. A study by Seattle University also showed that farmers’ market fare is cheaper per pound than supermarket fare.

Vegetables are sold whole: This is another nice thing about the farmers’ market. Since produce is sold whole, they last longer. You can also embrace whole produce to expand your palate. For example, root vegetables like beets and radishes are usually sold with their greens attached, and these can be prepared in salads or boiled like kale.

Bring your own bag: Since you get individual bags from each stand you shop at, not bringing your own bag can lead to having to hold a dozen or so bags- not to mention that the bags that farmers offer are flimsy and easily tear. Bring your own bag; it’s better for you and the environment.

Hit up the ATM beforehand: The farmers’ market only accepts cash. Bring small bills and change. Also, bring more than you think you’ll need. Going to the farmers’ market is all about trying new and unexpected things.

Ask the farmers questions: Don’t be afraid to ask farmers questions. They’ll be happy to tell you where and how the produce was made, and they’ll give you good advice on how to cook it, too. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for a taste test. Some farmers have cut fruit or vegetables displayed for this purpose.

Farmers’ markets in Ventura:

East Ventura- Ventura Community Park on Kimball Road
Near the Ventura Aquatic Center, this farmers’ market is relatively new, as it opened in 2013. The location is great for East Ventura residents. Another great thing about this location is that it’s near Albertson’s, so you can get all your shopping done in a small area. Parking for this farmers’ market is better than parking for most other farmers’ markets in Ventura. The only downside to this farmers’ market is the limited variety. Many farmers do not bother to come to East Ventura. Open: Thursdays, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Midtown Ventura- Pacific View Mall farmers’ market
This farmers’ market has been open since 1989, and even though it is small, there is a lot of variety. Parking is also close and plentiful. Other than fruits and vegetables, this farmers’ market offers baked goods, flowers, and tamales. The only downside to this market is the inconvenient opening time. Open: Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Downtown Ventura farmers’ market
This farmers’ market is the most popular because of its convenient opening time and variety. Other than produce, the market offers organic beef, baked goods, coffee (Latte 101), kettle corn and of course, tamales. This market also has dairy, herbs, organic honey and olive oil. The only downside to this location is parking. Although there are a variety of parking spaces downtown, they fill up quickly, so late shoppers may have to walk a good distance to their car. Open: Saturdays, 8:30 a.m to 12 p.m.

Featured Photo Credit: Joel Mayorga/The Foothill Dragon Press