This time of year is perfect for visiting your local farmers markets. The fall harvest is rolling in, the weather is cooling off a little bit, and there are plenty of fun activities to do! Farmer’s Markets are always great trips to take with the whole family.

1. Better Produce: You won’t find “Picked Today” produce at your average grocery store. It’s incredible freshness that you can’t find anywhere else. You’ll wander up and down the booths and find tons of fresh fruits and vegetables that are grown just a few miles away from where you live.

Typical produce in grocery stores has produce that has been grown and shipped to them from other states or other countries. They will sometimes put waxy coatings or spray other preservatives to keep the produce fresh. The suppliers will pick their fruit before it has ripened so that it can ship better. You’re left with fruits and veggies that don’t have as much natural taste, and they are covered in unnatural preservatives. You’ll notice the difference immediately when you take your first bite.

2. Support Local Businesses: It’s a valuable way to support local farmers and other local craftsmen instead of opting for the big box stores. The benefits are obvious—you’re going to get better produce, while driving up your local economy. When more people in your town are thriving at their business, then you will have more resources to put back into the community. It’s a win-win!

3. So Much More than Food: Of course, you’re going to find plenty of delicious things to eat, but there’s so much more to a Farmer’s Market than just the produce. You’ll find craftsmen who make handmade goods for the home. There are all natural soaps, candles, local honey, and even home goods like pillows, artwork, and jewelry. Each are unique and unlike anything in the stores. You’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry made from a local artist, or a custom throw pillow that will complete your fall décor. Even if you are only walking through, it’s fun to see what the local artists are creating!

4. Activities for the Kids: The holidays are rolling around, and there are always plenty of activities for the kids to get involved with. Certain farms and farmers markets offer things like pumpkin patches with rides. You can find petting zoos, inflatable slides, and other holiday treats.

5. Where to go:

• Las Vegas Farmers Market:
  • 1600N Rampart Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89102
  • 10401 Garden Park Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89135
  • 1980 Festival Plaza Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89135
• Fresh52:
  • 9480 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123
  • 302 S Rampart Blvd #150, Las Vegas, NV 89145
• The Las Vegas Farm: 7222 W Grand Teton Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89131
• Gilcrease Orchard: 7800 N Tenaya Way, Las Vegas, NV 89131

There are several different locations so you can find fresh ingredients and artisan handmade goods close to home. The hours can be a little different depending on the season, so make sure to check before you plan a trip to go. The farmers market is a fun way to spend an afternoon talking with the people in your community and enjoying some time outside all while supporting local businesses.