The 2008 Montgomery County Farmers Markets season officially runs from June through October, but several of the county’s 13 markets are already open, will open May 1 and/or will stay open later through the fall. Each market offers a wide range of farm fresh fruits, vegetables, bedding plants, baked goods, herbs and more.

Farmers markets are located throughout the county in Bethesda, Potomac, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, Rockville, Wheaton, Kensington and Takoma Park. Two new markets include the Olney Farmers Market, which celebrates its first full-season this year and the Clarksburg Farmers Market, in the heart of the Clarksburg Town Center.

“Farmers markets provide a very important source of income for local farmers, while at the same time providing a relaxed community gathering place where residents can catch up with each other as they purchase farm fresh local products,” said Jeremy Criss, manager, Agricultural Services Division, Department of Economic Development. Customers really enjoy having the opportunity to ask farmers how their products are grown and get first-hand advice on the best ways to prepare them.”

For a complete listing of market locations, days and hours of operation, and variety of produce and other goods available, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/farmersmarkets.