Grow Where You're Planted!
In recent years, “farm-to-table” (FTT) restaurants have grown in popularity. Simply put, FTT means the food offered has either come from local farmers or from a farming operation that adheres to sustainable agricultural practices.
This begs a logical question. Why not take it a step further and bring the farm-to-table experience home to the kitchen table? You can do just that when you visit a local farmer’s market.
A trip to the local farmers market is a glorious experience that informs us about locally grown food. It also encourages us to participate in supporting our community. Farmers’ markets can provide a real sense of place and have become community hubs.
A sense of community, the idea that people rely upon each other and come together for the common good, promotes camaraderie and feelings of belonging. Elevon, a master-planned community located in the charming town of Lavon, is built on this foundation, with many inviting open spaces and upscale amenities that become community hubs. Elevon is designed to bring families together, encourage connection to others, and provide opportunities for unforgettable shared experiences.
Eat Consciously
As conscious food consumers, supporting a local farmer’s market is a win-win. Here are some of the reasons why:
- It Promotes Sustainability
Local farmer's markets provide fresh, environmentally friendly food to the community. By supporting them, you support farmers and contribute to sustainable farming practices.
- It Strengthens the Community and Economy
When you buy from local farmers, you strengthen the community. Growers that sell their goods locally provide jobs and expand the local economy.
- There Is Freshness and Nutrition
Produce at local farmers markets is freshly picked in season, which means it’s sold at its peak flavor and nutritional value.
- It Allows Direct Interaction with Farmers
When shopping at local farmers' markets, you get to meet the farmers growing your food. They can tell you more about their growing process, as well as offer suggestions on how to cook and serve their products.
- There Are Reduced “Food Miles”
Locally sourced foods travel significantly fewer miles, reducing the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation and ensuring freshness.
Savor the Season
Families that live in Elevon are ideally located, near several outstanding farmers markets. If you’re looking for farm-fresh produce, or artisanal goods, or just want to support the greater community and local agriculture, there are many options to consider. The National Farmers Market Directory website suggests the following:
- Rockwall Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning from May through September, Downtown Rockwall hosts over 30 vendors. Sponsored by the City of Rockwall, this is a popular destination for locals to purchase fresh seasonal produce, specialty foods, and other hand-crafted goods. The pet-friendly market also features local talent, with live music for your listening enjoyment..
- McKinney’s Farmers Market: Consistently ranked as one of the top farmer's markets in Texas, McKinney’s Farmer Market on Chestnut Square is open to the public every Saturday morning year-round. With over 75 vendors, including craftsmen, farm stands, and artisanal goods, this is a market not to miss! With live music for entertainment and even pony rides for the kids, McKinney is a great destination for the whole family.
- The Frisco Fresh Market: This fun stop on Main Street in Frisco is open year-round every weekend – rain or shine. This pet-friendly market regularly puts on chef demonstrations, live music, and hosts a calendar of family-oriented events in conjunction with offering a wide array of fresh, locally sourced produce, artisanal goods, and specialty foods.
Navigate the Market Like a Pro!
The following tips will help you get the most out of Market Day!
- Familiarize yourself with seasonal produce to guide your menu planning and shopping choices.
- Bring small change. Most vendors accept credit or cash, but having both on hand makes transactions smoother.
- Bring your own bags -preferably canvas or nylon.
- Go early to ensure the best selection.
- Take a lap around the market to check out the vendors before making your first purchase.
- Ask questions and engage with vendors. They’re passionate about their products. Inquire about recipes, storage tips, and special deals they may have.
Community Hubs
A sense of community comes easily at Elevon. Planning quality time with friends and families is a snap with so many recreational opportunities right in the neighborhood. While walking along the creek that runs the length of the community, residents can enjoy all the amenities, like hiking and biking trails, parks designed for everyone in the family (including the family dog), and a resort-quality swimming complex with a splash zone to beat the heat!
Just like farm stands at the farmers market have something for everyone, Elevon’s team of builders offers new homeowners designs and floorplans that reflect their tastes. A sense of place is essential and here residents get all the convenience and opportunity associated with a big city without sacrificing the comfort and charm of small-town living. You might even say Elevon gives its residents a sense of “a place to call home.”
Grow with Us!
Stop by your local farmers market and pack up a picnic basket to share. It’s been said the people who give you their food give you their heart. The same could be said of the people who design houses that become a family home. Come to Elevon to see all the heart it has to offer. Why not schedule a visit today?