The United States Department of Agriculture has declared Aug. 3-9 as this year’s Farmers Market Week. For the local community, the Turlock Certified Farmers Market is the perfect place to celebrate.

USDA hopes that the 15th annual National Farmers Market Week will once again commemorate the farmers and communities that put on the markets nationwide. With over 8,100 markets in total, TCFM is just one venue that allows consumers to connect with their local community in order to purchase fresh produce and unique handcrafted items.

 “You get farm fresh food from local farmers as opposed to the fruits and vegetables from a typical grocery store where you do not know where they come from,” said Turlock Market Manager Derek Griffin. “At the market you are able to buy produce cheaper and locally in order to support local businesses.”

Well into its fifth season, TCFM takes place every Friday in downtown Turlock. The market gives the community an opportunity to browse from a variety of vendors and enjoy free entertainment.

This season’s TCFM has everything from fresh produce to handcrafted jewelry to live music. A complete list of vendors is available on the website, but the best way to find out what TCFM has to offer is to make a stop at the next farmers market.

“There is no reason to buy your produce at the grocery store unless you absolutely have to,” Griffin added, “our own farmer’s market is a true asset to the community.”

TCFM takes place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Friday through October at the corner of Main Street and Broadway Avenue. For more information, visit turlockmarket.org.