I love my local Farmer's Market whole-heartedly! I used to travel in from the 'burbs to attend, and then decided to move downtown. The market definitely informed my decision. I love buying food from people who raise it themselves. I learn about new foods (this week: sorrel, which is a green that has a bright, lemon-y flavor...yummy in a salad) from the vendors. I shop the indoor market, too. It's great to be able to buy kombucha and hemp milk in the neighborhood. There's a great selection of regional craft beers, too. And don't even get me started about the wine selection.
I love that the market has installed awnings and a misting system that utilizes harvested rainwater. And that they've planted trees. And that they host the mobile food court, or "Food Truck Friday," which helps local food entrepreneurs connect with the public, and provides a great lunch alternative downtown. I ESPECIALLY love that the market is replacing a single metered parking space with racks for 16 bicycles. I ride my bike here most weekends, and will appreciate the expanded parking space. I can purchase most everything I need at the market, and I feel good knowing that my dollars are staying right here in our community.