The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially opened the USDA Farmers Market for its 27th season. This annual market, a staple event held every Friday, will commence on June 7 and continue through October 25, offering a diverse array of fresh produce and locally made products.

This year, the USDA Farmers Market promises an assortment of items that highlight the agricultural richness of the Chesapeake Bay region. Visitors can look forward to freshly picked produce, homemade bread, fresh-cut flowers, and locally crafted foods.

Jenny Lester Moffitt, USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, emphasized the market’s role in fostering community connections and showcasing local producers. “We look forward to welcoming new and returning vendors and visitors back for another fun season,” she stated.

A unique feature of the USDA Farmers Market is its educational program, VegU. This program promotes the consumption of healthy, fresh produce through brief educational sessions and live recipe demonstrations. These activities are designed to help attendees incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into their diets, encouraging healthier eating habits.

The market is also accessible to participants of USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), as it accepts SNAP/EBT payments, making fresh produce more affordable and accessible to a wider audience.

The USDA Farmers Market has been operated by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) since its inception in 1995. AMS is dedicated to enhancing marketing opportunities for producers across the United States through a combination of research, technical assistance, and grants. Each year, AMS supports hundreds of agricultural food businesses, including farmers markets, food hubs, wholesale markets, and retailers. They also work with state agencies, community planning organizations, and other agri-food focused groups to bolster local food marketing efforts.

The market’s season offers a valuable platform for local farmers and producers to sell their goods directly to consumers, thus strengthening the local economy and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The USDA Farmers Market is not just a place to buy food; it is an experience that connects consumers with the origins of their food, promotes local agriculture, and fosters community spirit.

As stated in the press release, this market season promises to be vibrant and engaging, with new vendors joining the returning favorites, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience for all visitors. The USDA Farmers Market continues to be a cherished tradition, supporting local agriculture and providing a venue for community members to enjoy and learn about fresh, healthy food options.