The Canton Farmers Market has long been my favorite in metro-Detroit. It is not the biggest or…read morebrightest or shiniest, but it is - in my opinion the best.
First, the market is in a super suburban development that is on the edge of "country", as in drive a quarter mile north, south, or west, and you are there. This section of Canton, Cherry Hill Village, was once a huge sweet corn growing area, so the country roots aren't that deep. The market is in public property that includes several civic buildings showcasing the area's rural history. The buildings also offer respite from rain, shade, and porches for live music!
Second, solid parking for the size of the market. Though the parking is in grass, it is well set up and marked. When the market is busy, they often have volunteers directing traffic.
And there are lots of volunteers at this market, so make that three. There is always a table of master gardeners to offer advice for home planting, free seeds, and perennial swaps. Other volunteers keep things tidy and help those who are looking for something specific or need help.
Finally, the vendors - there is a large fruit seller and a large vegetable seller. Of course, each has some cross over, but both are fairly local and have large, diverse varieties. The vegetable seller also sells CSA boxes that you prepay and pick up. In addition to these two, there are a few others that fill in fruit and vegetable gaps. One usually has fresh eggs, but get there early before they run out. The Cheese People are there offering delicious samples of a wide variety of Michigan made cheeses. The food vendors are rounded out by chips and salsa, coffee, cheesecakes, pasta, baked goods -- all local. There are also some non-food sellers with soap, crafts, and art.
I know it doesn't sound big, but it is big enough. This is my first grocery stop of the week. I round out my fresh food here with items from a butcher and a grocery store, but when in season, always here first.
