A Parent’s Guide to Exploring Farmers Markets in Redlands, California

Embark on a Fresh Adventure: A Parent’s Guide to Farmers Markets in Redlands, CA

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Welcome, parents of Redlands, California! If you’re on the lookout for a fun, educational, and tasty family outing, you’re in for a treat. The local farmers markets here in Redlands are not just a hub for fresh produce but also a fantastic way for your children to learn about healthy eating habits, local agriculture, and the importance of community. So, strap in your little ones, grab your reusable totes, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at the bustling farmers markets of Redlands!

The Best Farmer’s Markets in Redlands for Families

Redlands boasts several farmers markets, each with its own charm and selection of goodies. Whether you’re a long-time local or new to the area, exploring these markets can be the highlight of your week. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect:

Downtown Redlands Market Night

Location: Downtown Redlands on State Street
Hours: Every Thursday, rain or shine, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Every Thursday evening, State Street transforms into a vibrant marketplace that’s perfect for families. The Downtown Redlands Market Night is an excellent opportunity for you and your little ones to interact with local farmers, artisans, and other community members. Enjoy the live music and the enchanting atmosphere as you explore stands filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and homemade treats. Don’t forget to let the kids participate in the seasonal activities, which often include face painting and craft booths!

Redlands Farmers Market at the Grove School

Location: The Barton School House at the Grove School
Hours: Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM

The Redlands Farmers Market at the Grove School is a hidden gem for families. Hosted in the historic Barton School House, this market focuses on sustainable agriculture and education. It’s smaller than the Market Night but equally delightful, featuring organic produce from the students’ own gardens. Take advantage of the opportunity to teach your kids about farm-to-table practices and the value of supporting local students and their green endeavors.

Why Visit The Farmers Market with Your Family?

Still wondering why you should bring the family to the farmers market? Here are some compelling reasons:

Educational Opportunities: Farmers markets serve as an open-air classroom where kids can learn about seasonal produce, the locavore movement, and how their food choices impact their health and the environment.
Nutritious Choices: It’s a place where whole foods take center stage, free from the pesky additives found in processed foods. Introduce your children to a rainbow of fruits and vegetables they might not see at the grocery store.
Family Bonding: Spend quality time as a family walking through the rows of stalls, engaging with vendors, and selecting items together. It’s a shared experience that fosters communication and bonding.
Supporting the Local Economy: By purchasing at the market, you’re directly contributing to the livelihood of local farmers and artisans, keeping the community thriving.

Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s dive into some tips for making the most of your visit to the Redlands farmers markets. Stay tuned for exciting ways to engage your kids, seasonal picks that can’t be missed, and how to prepare for your wholesome outing. With so much to explore, the farmers markets of Redlands are waiting to be your family’s new go-to destination for fresh, local produce and so much more!

Whether you’re a seasoned market-goer or a first-time visitor, the welcoming atmosphere of the Redlands farmers markets is sure to make your family’s day both enjoyable and memorable. So gather your little ones, grab your sun hats, and embark on a journey to the heart of our local food scene. Get ready to be enamored by the charm, flavors, and community spirit that make the farmers markets in Redlands a nourishing experience for all ages.

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5 Things Parents Should Know When Preparing for Farmers Markets in Redlands, California

Excited about your upcoming visit to the farmers markets in Redlands? Here are five essential tips to ensure you and your family have the best possible experience:

1. Plan Your Visit

Check the Weather: Most markets are open rain or shine, but it’s always good to be prepared for the elements. Bring sunscreen, hats, or raincoats depending on the forecast.
Know the Schedule: Familiarize yourself with the days and hours of the markets you plan to visit so you can get there early for the best selection or towards the end for potential deals.
Set a Budget: Decide on how much you’re willing to spend beforehand to avoid impulse purchases, though it’s also nice to have a little extra cash for a spontaneous treat!

2. Involve Your Kids

Turn the market visit into a fun and educational outing:

Give them a small amount of money and let them pick out a fruit or vegetable.
Encourage them to ask farmers questions about how and where the produce is grown.
Find a new item you haven’t tried before and select a recipe to make at home together.

3. Be Prepared for the Market

Reusable Bags: Bring your own reusable tote bags to carry purchases. Some markets also offer a bag check or wagon rentals.
Cash is King: While many vendors now accept credit cards, cash (especially smaller bills) is still the preferred method of payment.
Bring a Cooler: If you’re planning to purchase perishable items like meat or cheese, a cooler with ice packs will keep them fresh until you get home.

4. Dress Comfortably

Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be on your feet for a while, walking on uneven surfaces.
Choose clothes that are weather-appropriate and easy to move in, so you can fully enjoy the market experience.

5. Plan for Meals and Snacks

Many markets have food trucks or stands with ready-to-eat treats. Plan to have breakfast or lunch there as part of the fun.
Think about meals you can make from the produce you purchase, and involve your children in the planning. It’s a great way to help them connect the dots from farm to table.

Engage Your Kids with Interactive Learning at the Market

Use this as an opportunity to instill in your children the values of healthy eating and supporting local communities:

Get them to help pick out colors for a ‘rainbow plate’ of fruits and veggies.
Have them track the seasonality of produce, understanding what grows when.
Let them conduct a taste test and compare the flavors of store-bought and market-fresh produce.

You’ll leave the market not only with bags full of nutritious food but also with a sense of satisfaction knowing that you’ve created a foundation for lifelong healthy habits in your children.

As you can see, a trip to the farmers market is more than just grocery shopping—it’s a chance for wholesome entertainment, education, and engagement with the community. The farmers markets in Redlands are vibrant, interactive spaces thriving with life and local produce just waiting to ignite your family’s passion for fresh, healthy living. All these elements blend together to make your outing to a Redlands market the highlight of your weekend. And remember, each trip can be a new adventure as the seasons change and new products arrive, keeping each visit unique and exciting! Happy market adventures await in Redlands, California!

See more great Things to Do with Kids in California here. For more information see here

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