Market World...a Cultural Phenom!

" A farmer's market is a farmer's market!" Not true! Whether located In a trendy neighborhood, off the beaten path, a tourist area or some other location, these markets offer an in-depth look at the local neighborhood.  Location, location, location....perhaps, but some local markets offer less expensive prices, homegrown stories, and often a glimpse into the lives of the vendors and "hawkers" that make these markets unique.

Central Florida's Farmers Markets are abundant, with operating hours throughout the week.  A local favorite in Polk County, Market World, just off the Polk Parkway, is somewhat of a cultural phenom.  With numerous vendors vying for your business, it pays to walk the long aisle a few times watching and listening before purchasing.  Most offer all produce currently "in season," others with harder to find items such as affordable turmeric  and ginger root, Lychee fruit and Gooseberries.  Specialty produce such as Japanese eggplant, bean sprouts, baby bok choy, kohlrabi, English peas, long beans and micro greens are usually available from an amazing little Asian vendor located near the end of the aisle. Quick to make eye contact, this seasoned little lady is eager to share her cooking techniques and their nutritional value of her produce, if you take the time to listen.  Produce at this stop is A-1 and comparably priced.  

Depending at which end your journey through this colorful and aromatic area begins, do not begin......hungry! If the belly growls while trying to makes decisions in this area, a quick pit stop at the mini donut machine, popping out yummy little morsels of freshly fried old fashioned donuts,minimally priced, is a must.  You won't be disappointed. If your search is for a healthier option, fresh fruit cups of brightly colored produce are made on site. Grazing techniques at vendor stops offering samples might possibly stave off impending hunger pains, just don't linger, vendors become annoyed with foraging Consumers. 

With cooler weather......hopefully......around the corner, a few vendors offering mild to super hot varieties of peppers, suggest a steaming pot of homemade Chili to ward off the autumn coolness.

Market World not only sells Florida fresh produce, but is home to every type of street hawker eager to sell their product.  Tee shirts, "designer" hand bags, jewelry, jewelry and more jewelry from every corner of the globe, "antiques" and multitudes of out of the ordinary flea market finds, cutlery, books, anti-aging creams, and anything else you are able to imagine, is for sale.  Each vendor with a carefully crafted spiel, wide smile and "guarantee" theirs is a one of a kind, rock bottom priced....  deal!