With frosted community gardens and snow-covered fields in sight, eating local produce in Michigan might seem impossible—but with a little planning, it can be just as easy and rewarding as it is in the summer. Between year-round farmers markets, winter CSA shares, and brick-and-mortar shops featuring local products, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh, local food even in the colder months.
Farmers Markets: A Year-Round Resource
Michigan’s farmers markets don’t hibernate for the winter! Many, like the Holland Farmers Market, operate indoor winter markets that feature an impressive variety of fresh produce and local goods. Kara de Alvare, Marketing Coordinator at the Holland Farmers Market, notes that stored produce and greenhouse-grown food mean customers can still find root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and beets, as well as apples, greens, and microgreens during the winter.
“The effort to keep farmers markets top of mind in the off-season is definitely worth it,” she says. Beyond produce, the Holland Farmers Market also offers year-round treats like honey, baked goods, and unique gourmet items like bottled juices, Asian-style dumplings, and cordials. Shopping local during winter not only supports farmers but also bolsters the local community.
Winter CSAs and Online Options
Winter CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) are another excellent way to access local food during the colder months. Many farms offer subscription boxes filled with seasonal produce, eggs, or value-added items like jams and sauces. Some even provide home delivery or convenient pick-up locations.
Crisp Country Acres, in Southwest Michigan, offers a year-round CSA and has embraced selling produce in the winter to support their team and community. “Our primary goal for offering produce during the winter months was to ensure year-round employment,” farm owner Lindsey Visser explains. “We began by selling to just a few restaurants, then launched a winter CSA program. Now, we supply several area restaurants, maintain a year-round CSA program, and attend both the Kalamazoo Winter Market and the Muskegon Market on Saturdays. Our Market at the Farm in Holland is also open year-round!”
Customers of Crisp Country Acres especially enjoy their fresh greens for winter salads and sweet carrots, which Lindsey recommends roasting to bring out their natural sweetness. “Selling to customers throughout the year has been incredible,” she adds. “We now provide year-round employment for most of our team and continue to supply the community with local food even in the winter months.”
Online shopping has also expanded the reach of local food. Many Michigan farms and producers now sell their products online, offering everything from maple syrup to shelf-stable dry goods that can be delivered straight to your door.
Local Shops: Michigan-Made Products
Don’t overlook local brick-and-mortar shops specializing in Michigan-made goods! These stores often carry products from nearby farms, such as cheeses, meats, and pantry staples. Visiting these shops is also a great way to discover new flavors while supporting local artisans.
By seeking out farmers markets, CSAs, and local shops this winter, you can savor Michigan’s bounty while supporting your community all year long.
Find local food near you this winter!
Emily Row is the Director of Communications at Taste the Local Difference. Contact her at [email protected]