Washington State produces 2.095 billion dollars in apples a year, which is 70-percent of the United States production according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture. From there we’re number 1 in blueberries, hops, pears, spearmint oil and sweet cherries. We’re number 2 in raspberries, apricots, grapes, asparagus and potatoes.
With all of these delicious fruits and vegetables for our table, it’s no surprise that we would have an abundance of well-stocked farmers markets.
The advantage of buying from a local grower means we keep more of our money in our communities and help sustain us during uncertain times.
When you’re looking for a place to go on a weekend, here are some of the best farmers markets around. These short day trips will fill your basket with fresh fruit and vegetables for the dinner table in the evening.
Bainbridge Island Farmers Market – Bainbridge Island at the Ferry
Whether you’re looking for fresh eggs, onion relish preserves or buckets of spring flowers, you’re sure to find something that will not only liven up your kitchen but will be good for you, too. The farms that participate in the market include Heyday Farm, Bainbridge Vineyards, Butler Green Farms and Farmhouse Organics.
You’ll also find more than food. Local artists and craftspeople set up shop at the market where they sell their work. Gift ideas like macramé, maps, metal works and herbal remedies are all available at the market.
There is a group of food vendors that sell fish, greens, chocolate and bakery goods, as well as coffee. You know that nothing makes the day like a good cup of fresh coffee.
Bainbridge Island Farmers Market’s purpose statement says that they are there to improve the business conditions of local farmers, gardeners, processors, artists and craftspeople.
They have seasonal hours, so check their website before you go. https://www.bainbridgeislandfarmersmarket.com/
Waterfront Farmers Market – Gig Harbor
When it comes to harvesting fresh produce and fruit in Gig Harbor, there’s no finer display than here. The Waterfront Farmers Market’s mission is to provide access for all citizens to fresh, local, sustainable food and food products in an atmosphere that promotes community and economic vitality as they support the region’s farmers and producers.
You’ll find goods like fresh raspberries, brilliantly colored cut flowers, bunches of radishes and, of course, apples. In addition, enjoy the heady scents of fresh lavender and loaves of bread.
All of their vendors must adhere to the standards of the Washington State Farmers Market Association, as well as additional standards set by Waterfront Farmers Market. That means that you’ll always know where your food is coming from and that all processors have the appropriate licensing by the state.
For more information on The Waterfront Farmers Market, click here. https://www.waterfrontfarmersmarket.org/
Kingston Farmers Market – Kingston
When it comes to a place to have a picnic, the lawn at the Mike Wallace Park in the Port of Kingston Marina is an inviting place to take your shoes off and walk barefoot through the lush grass. A bonus to the picnic atmosphere is that this is where they hold the Kingston Farmers Market.
You can make your own picnic as you shop among the array of fresh vegetables, baked goods like bread, and homemade jams and jellies. Pick up fresh coffee for the morning, and local honey for your toast. If you don’t want to make your own sandwich, many vendors sell prepared goods to eat on the go.
Check their website for more information on times and dates. http://www.kingstonfarmersmarket.com/
Port Orchard Farmers Market – Port Orchard
On the waterfront, you’ll find the vendor tents of our local farmers at the Port Orchard Farmers Market. This market boasts a large selection of vetted vendors who offer everything from seed starters for flowers and vegetables to blue oyster mushrooms to fresh tree fruit like apples and pears. Wenatchee has nothing on our local apple orchards.
In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, there is a dazzling array of cut flowers, cookies, pies and cakes. Other foods to eat while shopping include scones, empanadas and cotton candy.
Music is a must, and the calendar is filled with all types of music to make shopping fun.
Since 1978, this member-run market has been offering the fruits of their labor to the local community, so head over to the market, mingle with your neighbors and put money back into Port Orchard.
For more information on the market, click here. http://www.pofarmersmarket.com/
Like Preparing Food
Your vehicle must be prepared for all weather and conditions, so no matter what the season, make sure you do regular maintenance on it like changing the oil and keeping the tire pressure consistent. Topping off fluids and checking your lights is always a good thing to do, too.
No matter how much you prepare for conditions, there can be times when the weather can take you by surprise. So, in addition to the things mentioned above, here are some other ways you can prepare yourself and your vehicle for emergencies.
First Aid Kit
It doesn’t sound like something you would consider when preparing your car for an emergency, but did you know that many manufacturers include a first aid kit in the trunk by the spare tire jack?
Your first aid kit should include these items:
- Cotton balls
- Scissors
- Antibiotic cream or ointment
- Antiseptic wipes
- Bandages
- Medical tape
- Tylenol
- Ice pack
In addition to these items, you should have instructions on how to do CPR or have taken a life-saving class. Tweezers are good, too.
Depending on the season, you may want to carry water, blankets, a shovel, canned food or a fire extinguisher in your trunk. If you’re headed off the grid, take extra cell phone chargers or a solar-powered charger and weather radio.
Duct tape is always a must-have.
Other emergency equipment includes flashlights, tow straps, flares and a tool kit.
At Kitsap Auto Outlet, we can help you get your vehicle ready for all types of weather. It’s always a good idea to have professionals look over your vehicle at least once a year. While you may change your oil, we can do the big chores like change belts and hoses, as well as check parts for wear. If you need new parts, we only use OEM replacement parts that are made to last as long as the original parts. We’ll take good care of your car, so you’ll be prepared for whatever weather Washington throws at you.
Call or use the online form to make an appointment today.