You know what they say, “Buy Fresh, Bike Local.”
Ok, maybe it’s “Buy Local,” but in honor of National Bike Month this May, “Bike Local” is a good substitute, or better yet, a good addition, to that saying.
Yes, “Buy Fresh, Buy Local, Bike Local”.
The Capital Region is fortunate enough to have some wonderful farmers markets. From the always vibrant Troy Waterfront Farmers Market to the festive Schenectady Greenmarket, many of these weekend hotspots are easily accessible for locals via bike due to their downtown or central locations.
Coming from a bit farther? As an Albany girl, the Mohawk Hudson Bike Path makes it easy to travel, mostly off-road, to get to my favorite spots in the neighboring towns and cities.
Or, if biking isn’t as feasible due to your location, put your bike on the car and park a bit farther from the market parking area. Then bike on in.
Thanks to CDTA, there are CDPHP Cycle hubs near most bike paths and city centers. It has never been easier to access a two-wheeled gem.
Why bike to a famers market, you ask?
When we think of farmers markets, we think about connecting farm and city, having access to fresh and local produce, helping the environment, and creating an atmosphere that is centered around health and community.
Biking seems to be the best fit for the mode of transportation to such an event, right?
Less traffic and air pollution, great exercise for your health, less noise, and a great community vibe.
Pedaling to the market seems to be the way to go, at least in theory.
There are some logistical aspects to think about before you hop on your bike on a beautiful sunny day and purchase some eggs, tomatoes, and meats from local vendors.
Tips for what to bring:
- Bike panniers or a large backpack
- Reusable bags
- Frozen packs/insulated bags
- Kitchen towels
- Lidded containers
Make a list before you head to the market of what you could possibly need. That way, you can be sure to have the proper items to assist with transport and keeping food fresh.
The easiest way to transport goods home would be bike panniers, which prevent you from having to carry a heavy bag on your back. As much as I bike, I don’t own bike panniers but have been pretty successful with a large backpack. Using CDPHP Cycle? You have a built in basket!
Reusable bags are great for shopping throughout the market. After you have purchased everything you need, take the time to pack your bag so you can transport everything in a safe and efficient way.
If you purchased meats, cheeses, or other cold-storage items, place the frozen packs in your bag and use them to keep these items cool on your ride home. Those highly perishable items, along with the ice packs, should be stored near the bottom of the bag. Insulated bags are a great alternative to the ice packs.
You can protect fragile items, like eggs and tomatoes, from breaking and bruising by wrapping a kitchen towel around the egg cartons and packing other delicate items into lidded containers. These items would be stored at the top of your bag to ensure that no heavy items crush them.
After you are packed and ready to go, you can enjoy your ride home knowing that you got your daily exercise and food shopping done at the same time… all while supporting your local vendors.
Great feeling, right?
After you do it once, I think you will be saying the “Buy Fresh, Buy Local, Bike Local” phrase for many weekend market days to come.
