Cleveland Farmers Market: Saturday mornings done right

The Cleveland Farmers Market runs Saturdays downtown, and it’s the real thing — actual local farmers, not resellers with a tent.

What to expect

Seasonal produce, local honey, baked goods, plants, eggs, and meat from area farms, plus local crafts. It runs spring through fall (roughly May to October) — check their page for exact dates each year. Go early for the best selection; the good tomatoes don’t last.

How to do it right

Bring cash (most vendors take cards now, but cash is faster) and bring bags. Talk to the farmers — they’ll tell you what’s good this week and how to cook it. It’s also just a good Saturday morning: coffee, a walk around downtown, and groceries that were in the ground yesterday.

Local tips

• First hour is for serious shoppers. Last hour is for deals.
• The plant vendors in spring are dangerous if you have a garden. Budget accordingly.
• Pair it with breakfast downtown — there are good options within two blocks.