Tompkins Square Greenmarket050

The open-air farmers' markets all around the five boroughs are known as Greenmarkets and are run by "Greenmarket," a program of the Council on the Environment of New York City. Founded in 1976, the program provides an opportunity for regional growers to sell fresh farm products directly to New Yorkers. Greenmarket staff members ensure that the produce is fresh and of high quality. Many of the farms are certified organic. These markets have been a godsend for NYC residents; now it's as easy to get fresh corn, tomatoes, and zucchini (and eggs, goat cheese, poultry, and fresh flowers) here as anywhere out in "the country" (as many New Yorkers call any place outside the 5 boroughs). A trip to the Greenmarket provides an opportunity to inform kids about where our foods come from and why freshness matters. During peak season (around July-October) there's a cornucopia of produce that's a thing of beauty for the eye alone, not to mention the palate. The larger ones (Union Square in Manhattan, Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn) can be especially great fun for kids to explore. Street musicians frequent the Greenmarkets; you'll often see a toddler or two rocking out - or dozing off.