Reason #7 (Seasonal Farmer's Markets)

Philadelphia's city dwellers may have access to more fresh, local, seasonal produce than our suburban and rural-living friends, thanks to a wide variety of seasonal farmer's markets in Center City.


Headhouse Farmer's Market is my personal favorite because it's close to my apartment and stays open into the winter (some are even year round!). It's been a huge learning experience for me to learn what fruits and vegetables are seasonal in our area, when.

Gone are the days of shopping for produce in the supermarket (except when an avocado craving hits, or maybe in February), thanks to Barbara Kingsolver's Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, my favorite summer read. Glossy, perfectly round tomatoes no longer look real to me, and I know that carrots don't naturally grow straight. Okay, I may be becoming a food snob, but isn't this the best kind of snob? One who respects farmers and their profession? One who rejects pesticides and artificial growing environments? who enjoys a Sunday morning out in the community and who really just wants her food to be real?


While the late summer tomato canning tradition is still in my future (Sorry Mrs. Kingsolver, I need a normal-sized kitchen first), I did freeze home-made tomato sauce and green beans, and there is a lot of winter squash coming my way. Small step by small step, we can all make a difference in our communities, our country and our world by supporting sustainable agriculture.

So, thanks to Headhouse Square and Farm to City (and MM for all the photos), I love Philly because of seasonal farmer's markets!

Reason #3 (Community Gardens, Part I)

My 2nd favorite Philly occurrence in spring and summer, community gardens will most definitely occupy more than one post as herbs, flowers, and veggies spring to life this year. So, in celebration of the beginning of spring, I captured one local community garden's greenery after neighbors and plot sharers have spent many hours bringing this land back to life.

Located on Locust Street in Center City, this collection of plots is nestled among historic row homes and swanky restaurants (like one of my favorites, Garces Trading Post--- will post soon). What I really love about community gardens is the neighborhood bond they create. I've heard that residents wait YEARS for a plot, all the while buying shares in a local farm's CSA.

But the most wonderful part of community gardens in Philly is their presence in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Transformed from trash-filled, city-owned vacant lots, these gardens promote a sense of belonging, teamwork, and a respect for healthy, local food.

Check out the Neighborhood Gardens Association for more info.

Here's to you, Spring!