Fresh Finds & Friendly Faces: Tips for Shopping at New Mexico Farmers’ Markets

There’s something special about strolling through a New Mexico farmers’ market. Depending on the time of year, you’ll find shoppers enjoying the sights and smells of local food, the sound of neighbors catching up—shopping locally has never felt more nourishing.

As the 2025 market season gets underway across the Land of Enchantment, here’s your go-to guide for making the most of your market trips, whether you’re in Silver City, Santa Fe, or Shiprock.

Why Shop Local?

Farmers’ markets aren’t just about picking up fresh fruits and veggies—they’re about building healthier lives and stronger communities. When you shop at your local market, you:

• Get the freshest produce available – picked just hours before you take it home;  
• Support New Mexico farmers – many of whom rely on market income to keep growing;  
• Learn from the source – farmers can tell you the best ways to store, cook, or even regrow your produce;  
• Save money – especially when it comes to organic and seasonal items.  

Before You Head Out the Door

Planning ahead makes for a smooth and satisfying market day:

• Check the schedule: Every market is different. Double-check open days and hours—especially during early spring and late fall.
• BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag): Or basket. Or a lightweight cart. You can even reuse old produce bags.
• Pack a cooler: New Mexico sun is no joke! Keep your goodies fresh on the ride home with an inexpensive cooler or insulated bag.
• Shop early: The best produce and popular items tend to go fast—get there when the market opens.
• Be flexible: Forget the shopping list. Buy what’s in season and let your meals revolve around what looks delicious.

At the Market: Shop, Savor, Socialize

Farmers’ markets are as much about connection as they are about cucumbers. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

• Browse before buying: Take your time and see what each vendor has to offer. Some will let you sample!
• Try something new: Never cooked with garlic scapes or kohlrabi? Ask the farmer for prep tips—you might discover a new favorite.
• Talk to your farmers: They’re passionate, knowledgeable, and often have great ideas for recipes or storage tricks.
• Go straight home: To preserve that farm-fresh quality, don’t let produce sit in a hot car. Or better yet, keep a cooler handy.

When You Get Home: Store Smart, Waste Less

• Heavier items go at the bottom of your bag or basket to prevent squishing.  
• Store green produce in plastic bags or other containers in the fridge.
• Keep carrots, beets, and radishes lasting longer by trimming the green tops to prevent the greens from drawing moisture and nutrients away from the crops. With some greens (like carrot tops) you can make pesto, or feed the tops to your chickens, add them to your compost, or ask the farmer if they want to keep the green tops.   
• Keep tomatoes, onions, garlic, and potatoes at room temperature—never in the fridge!  
• Use online resources like WHFoods.org or AllRecipes.com for recipes and storage tips.  
• Unsure about something? Ask the farmer next week—they’re usually happy to help.

Programs That Make Markets More Accessible

In New Mexico, we’re lucky to have several programs to stretch food dollars while supporting local agriculture:

• Double Up Food Bucks New Mexico
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
• WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)

Healthy Food, Healthy Communities

Shopping at New Mexico farmers’ markets isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle rooted in health, sustainability, and community spirit. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect peach in Taos or chatting with chile roasters in Socorro, your market experience is about more than just what’s on your plate. It’s about connection—to land, to culture, and to each other.

So grab your bag, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the flavors of New Mexico—one market at a time. Find your market now!