Tips for the Best Farmer’s Market Experience (with your pup!)

I take a lot of pride in our many farmers markets throughout Michigan. It’s a chance to build community, pick up fresh local foods and learn more about producers and local business owners like the beef jerky guys I met (and loved). I grew up in a small town involved in FFA and 4-H and learned about Michigan agriculture and this serves as an extension of that education for me, plus it’s a chance for me to get out and about with the pups.

But it’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially if you plan to bring your dog. So read below for tips on making the most of your farmers market visit and making it comfortable and a positive experience for your pup too!

Confirm the Market is Dog Friendly!

Some farmers markets don’t allow dogs, but I chose the South Lansing Farmer’s Market since it is smaller and dog friendly, making it a perfect choice to swoop in with the pups and be able to easily come and go. They have dog water dishes and many of the vendors, staff and fellow shoppers were excited to meet James and Koko. They met a few doggie friends too.

Develop a Shopping List

Do your research, know what’s in season and write up a shopping list to keep you on track! This also makes sure I can get in and out when I have dogs with me. Next, I’ll look at the vendors and farmers participating in the market so I know who will be carrying what produce and product. This time, I didn’t look up what produce is in season like kale and asparagus, but I did know about the baked goods and the beef jerky. Priorities!

I’ll either write out an old school list in a notebook or keep a list in Evernote to make sure I pick up everything I need. If possible at larger markets, I’ll scoop up a map too so I can easily navigate!

Dress Accordingly

It was a hot sunny day at the farmers market and so I threw on breathable, linen overalls and a crop striped tee. Linen is great for hot days and I love the overalls with the pockets. I stuffed my phone in one of the front pockets and could’ve easily packed cash in one of them too.

I also usually pack a tote or larger crossbody to pack my goods into, but my friend Emily brought along her tote and so I packed my farmers market finds into her bag. On this particular trip, I brought home pesto, fresh cinnamon bread, spicy jerky with no preservatives and honey! I meant to buy more meat and asparagus, but the doggies were getting hot and so I’ll be back next week.

Pack the Essentials

I always forget to pack enough cash–especially small bills to make it easier to make change. I’ve learned that creating a list of to-dos to prepare for a farmers market helps me remember the little things that matter like carrying small bills. I packed a water bottle and sunglasses along with dog necessities like poop bags, a collapsible dog dish and treats.

Know your Pet & What Works Best for Them

James gets a little excited and so I always make sure he’s wearing his harness and that I take him for a short walk before the farmers market to make sure he’s not as energized.

And with my foster dog Koko, I know long treks aren’t for her with her stage four heart murmur so she happily rests in the sling while we walk! I also know James loves this type of activity, but can get tired out pretty quickly so I try to move quickly and be as efficient as possible so he has fun, but isn’t overwhelmed.

And Know the Michigan Laws Regarding Pets at Markets

In Michigan, dogs aren’t allowed in any vendor space that has a MDARD food establishment license–equivalent to no dogs allowed in licensed food establishments. So keeping your dog on a leash is good practice of course to help ensure your pup stays away from food, displays and the licensed vendors!

Emily got a chance to tote Koko around too!

Above: I love Kathie Dunbar, the executive director of the South Lansing Community Development Association. The association hosts the farmers market and I love that I got to see her and that I realized this market is maybe two miles or less from my house.

Below: Fred’s Jerky Products was my favorite booth. I loved their enthusiasm and tasting samples of all the jerky. Plus, they loved the dogs (and they loved them too!)

This post is sponsored by the Michigan Farmers Market Association

Photography by Emily Mata