Last summer I discovered the Rose City Farmers Market and developed a love for all things local. Sure, I still do the majority of my shopping at grocery stores, but you better believe I look forward to visiting my local farmers market every Saturday that I can. And now I've discovered that San Marcos also has a farmers market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, so as soon as school starts up again I'll be checking it out! I encourage everyone to check out their local farmers market like I have; you won't regret it!

Here are a few reasons why you should visit the farmers market nearest you:

1. Support The Economy

It's true that when you buy local you support the local economy. Not to mention, it feels good to know you're supporting a family and their small business rather than a huge corporation. And since there is no middle man for these farmers and artisans, prices are relatively cheap for really good, organic products.

2. Improve Your Health

The food you're buying was prepared by the same person selling it. What you're getting has come straight from their fields, kitchen or workshop. You're truly buying organic!

3. Markets Are Fun

I don't know about all farmers markets, but the one I go to has a free, outdoor yoga class and usually features live music! Even if there is no cool local band at your market, there are kind, hardworking farmers and artisans to have nice conversations with; which is personally my favorite part. Plus it's fun to see what each vendor has to offer, there are some really unique things out there!

4. Protect the Environment

Big time agriculture can harm the earth with the techniques they use to meet the demands of their company and the public. Plus, the products are shipped far distances all over the world, so all those trucks increase pollution. Whereas when you buy local, the farmers use techniques that don't harm the earth and they don't have to travel far with their products. Sure, buying local won't make a huge impact for the environment, but any little bit of help is needed.

5. Learn Something New

If you see produce you're not familiar with, or aren't sure how to use certain ingredients, the farmers are sure to have tips and recipes for you!

I learned from these guys that their bread is great for grilled cheese and french toast!

6. Experience Fresh Air

Farmers markets are (more often than not) outside. Strolling from vendor to vendor in the warm sunshine and breathing fresh air sounds much better to me than freezing your butt off in the frozen section of HEB.

7. Get Good Vibes

You'll feel so happy and reenergized after buying fresh, local produce from a friendly farmer. I guarantee you'll be in a good mood the rest of the day knowing you bought something fresh and local, directly helped out a small business and did something new and productive with your time.

So, check out your local market this weekend to buy good food from good people. If you don't know where any farmers markets are, the USDA has a handy tool on their website to find one near you! So get out there and try not to sound too hipster when you tell your friends that you spent your Saturday morning perusing the local farmers market.