Farmers' Markets Return to the Seacoast!

Last Saturday I attended Portsmouth's first farmers' market of the season. There were more vendors than I expected, considering the long winter that we (fingers crossed - barring all freak snow storms!) seem to have finally pulled through. There were many shoppers out as well, despite the rain, and I enjoyed taking in the scene, observing the shared excitement among the attendees for local food and goods.



I felt that this excursion was applicable to share on the NH Etsy Street Team blog because growing the food you eat is about as DIY/handmade as one can get. It's no secret that I have enormous respect for local food producers. I view crafters, artisans and farmers as part of the growing diy community. Many of us are returning to traditions of making things by hand, consuming less, taking care of the earth, living respectfully off of the land. Participating in these actions brings me joy. Being a part of this community gives me hope for a better planet. We are part of the solution.

The following quote really hits the nail on the head for me:

"...buying local supports community economic development, helping communities sustain their livelihood and character. It provides access to the freshest food available, enhancing taste and reducing food waste. And it strengthens our food community, encouraging social networks and food security in our communities and regions. Not only that, but knowing where your food comes from can help you advocate for lower-carbon production methods in your community, such as reducing fertilizer usage, no-till agriculture methods, and pasture-based livestock systems." (Originally posted on Discover(ing) Sustainability, UNH's sustainability blog, and re-posted, where I saw it, on Seacoast Eat Local. )

I urge you to support your local farmers in the coming months. Challenge yourself to eat one meal made of entirely local ingredients this summer. Discover what foods are unique to your area - and taste them! You might be surprised at just how easy and fun this can be!


Cheers, Sarah aka geek+nerd

Seacoast Growers Association Markets

Portsmouth: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the City Hall lot on Junkins Avenue - special opening ceremonies to be held the second week of the market, May 10th!

Dover: Wednesdays starting June 4, 2:30-6 p.m., McIntosh College’s Atlantic Culinary Academy parking lot, 181 Silver St.

Durham: Mondays starting June 2, 2:30-5:30 p.m., Durham traffic circle, Pettee Brook parking lot

Exeter: Thursdays starting June 5, 2:30-6 p.m., Swasey Parkway; Hampton: Tuesdays starting June 3, 3:00-6 p.m., Route 1, across from the post office

Kingston: Tuesdays starting June 3, 2:30-5:30 p.m., Main Street.

There are twenty markets in York, Strafford and Rockingham counties, view links to information and locations on this map.

Not in NH? Search this national database for a market near you.