Shopper's Guide · The Shed
A family-friendly market for all ages. Here's how to make the most of every visit — from what to bring to when to arrive.
Shopping a farmers market is different from a grocery store — in the best way. The vendors are the farmers and makers themselves. The selection changes with the season. And the best tables go fast. These tips will help you shop smarter, carry less, and leave with exactly what you came for.
10 Tips
Use the free Veggie Valet
Complimentary wagons are available at the orange Information Booth at the front of The Shed. Drop your bags there and shop the whole market hands-free. Pick everything up on your way out. Especially worth it on busy Saturdays when bags get heavy fast.
Arrive early for best selection
The most popular tables — fresh eggs, cut flowers, heritage meats — often sell out by mid-morning on Saturdays. Doors open at 8am. If there's something specific you're after, come early.
Bring reusable bags
Plastic bags are rare at farmers markets, and produce is better in a breathable tote anyway. Bring two or three reusable bags — more than you think you'll need. You will fill them.
Plan to take your time
This isn't a dash-in, dash-out errand. Walk the whole market once before you buy. Get your bearings, see what's looking good today, and come back for what caught your eye. The vendors are here to talk.
Talk to the vendors
The person at the table grew it, raised it, or made it. Ask them how to store it, what it pairs with, or what's coming into season soon. You'll leave knowing more than any grocery store label could tell you.
Ask about pre-orders
Specialty items like heirloom turkeys, bulk eggs, pastured lard, and custom cuts often sell out or aren't always stocked. Many vendors take pre-orders — ask at the booth or check their contact info.
Check What's Fresh before you go
The DFM weekly newsletter includes a "What's Fresh" section showing what's in season right now. Sign up at stay-in-touch to get it in your inbox before each market weekend.
Cash and cards both work
All vendors at The Shed accept cash and credit cards. SNAP/EBT benefits are also accepted on eligible items — visit the Information Booth to get started.
Bring a cooler for meat and dairy
If you're buying pasture-raised meats, eggs, or dairy, a small insulated bag or soft-sided cooler keeps them at temperature until you get home — especially on hot Texas mornings.
Check your haul before you leave
Before you head to the parking garage, flip through what you bought. Make sure nothing got squashed at the bottom of a bag and that you didn't forget anything at the Veggie Valet.
Search the vendor finder
Looking for a specific producer or product? Use the vendor finder tool on the DFM website to check which vendors are scheduled for the upcoming weekend before you make the trip.
