I ended up saving $8.19 on my total produce bill. When looking at individual items the price savings are even more noticeable. Take eggplant for example: it was $1.00 per pound at the farmers market, and $3.49 per pound at the supermarket. I saved about $2.50, or about a gallon of gas (by today's prices), by purchasing just that veggie alone at the farmers market!

Not only were the prices better, but the quality and selection of food at the farmers market was leaps and bounds above the supermarket. They had strawberries and plums which I was unable to find at the store, and where the farmers market had locally grown tomatoes, the store had hothouse tomatoes. The market also had local honey (said to help with allergies), lavender, locally made all-natural cheeses, chestnuts and varietals of apples not available in the stores (pink ladies and galas for example).

And if you are concerned about protecting the environment, buying locally produced foods means less carbon emissions because there is less shipping involved. Plus many of the farmers use organic or natural processes in the fields.

Bring Small Bills--At farmer's markets you pay at each booth and small change makes the process go smoother and is usually appreciated by the farmers

Bring Bags--Bring cloth bags or reuse plastics to carry all your fresh fruits and veggies

Cart/Wagon--If you plan to really stock-up you might want to bring a cart to haul all your produce

Dress for the Weather--Rain or shine, most farmers markets are open for business so dress in layers

Ask Questions--If the booth isn't too swamped with customers, ask the farmer about the produce. Many are happy to explain how and where the items were grown and the best ways to prepare them

Money Saving Tips Part 1: Saving at Home

Money Saving Tips Part 2: The Coupon Phenomenon and the Discount Grocery Store

Money Saving Tips Part 3: The Dollar Store