It’s official! U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack proclaimed August 3-9, 2014 as National Farmers Market Week. This year marks the 15^th Annual National Farmers Market Week recognizing the important role that farmers markets play in the agricultural and food economy.

Farmers markets serve as a great way to find fresh, seasonal, and locally grown produce to use in cooking up healthy recipes at home. They are also a fun way to meet your local farmers and learn about what grows in and around your community. And if that isn't enough, check out even more great reasons to grab your family and take a trip to your local farmers market.

Throughout the week, USDA will celebrate the thousands of farmers markets, farmers, and communities that support these local efforts. Click here to find a farmers market near you!

"National Farmers Market Week is a great opportunity for farmers markets across the country to host special events to showcase all the tremendous services they provide," said Secretary Vilsack. "Farmers markets play a key role in developing local and regional food systems that support family farms, and help grow rural economies. They bring communities together, connecting cities with the farms that support them and provide Americans across the country with fresh, healthy food."

Once you pick up your local fruits and veggies, click here to find healthy recipes to make with those tasty, fresh ingredients!