Summer at the Farmers Markets
Summer is here and that means the heat is upon us! Expect to see summer veggies popping up including ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, summer squash, and juicy stone fruit! Summer in the Sonoran Desert means a rise in temps and finding new ways to shop and stay cool at the markets is crucial to an enjoyable experience. The Heirloom Farmers Market staff have become professional ‘summer farmers market survivalists’ over the years, and we’d love to help you be a ‘cool customer’ while navigating the markets.
BEAT THE HEAT | Shop early to “beat the heat”. We’ve transitioned to our summer hours of 8 am to 12 pm to accommodate shoppers and vendors. We recommend shopping early before temps reach 100 degrees. Remember, staying cool and hydrated is very important. So when you are packing your car to venture to the market, make sure you:
- Leave your dogs at home. The pavement and inside of vehicles are far too hot for dogs. Paws can quickly get burned on hot outdoor surfaces. PLEASE protect your furry family members and leave them at home!Effective January 1, 2023, pets are not allowed at the Rillito Park Farmers Market, read more here.
- Shop early and efficiently, it’s cooler in the mornings! The markets open at 8 AM and close at 12 PM to accommodate the rising temps. Please note that many vendors leave early on very hot days, so shop early for the best selection.
- Bring sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, umbrella, etc.
- Bring plenty of drinking water.
- Wear neck coolers or wet bandanas.
- Bring reusable totes and insulated bags.
- Bring coolers with ice for your produce and other perishable goods.
- Bring cash for hassle-free and quick shopping.
SHOP EFFICIENTLY | Before you head out for the market, check www.heirloomfm.org and scroll down on the homepage for a list of produce that is currently fresh at the market, and browse the array of deliciously seasonal recipes. You can also pick up the free Eat the Rainbow Recipe Book at the market info booth to get recipe ideas for every color of the rainbow. Eating the Rainbow is an easy way to remember to eat a variety of different fruits and vegetables, each of which can provide you with unique phytonutrients and hydration your body needs. Then, make a list of what you need for the week. Using your list for guidance will ensure that you don’t forget anything.
PRE-ORDER AND PICK-UP | If you can’t make it to the market, you can shop from home by visiting the “Deliveries, Pre-orders and Pickups” page on the Heirloom Farmers Market website, https://www.
SUPPORT LOCAL | The farmers, ranchers, backyard growers, and small businesses will continue to provide Tucson with the freshest locally grown produce even in 100-degree heat, so please shop local and support these amazing hardworking people. And don’t worry, there are plenty of ice-cold drinks to quench your thirst while you shop! Let’s keep this community thriving all summer long!