National Farmers Market Week is Aug. 3-9.

Locals can celebrate by sourcing fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables at neighborhood farmers markets.

For shoppers, farmers markets offer a wide variety of locally grown produce. It’s a unique shopping experience where shoppers may actually get to meet the farmer who grew their food.

Studies show that American farmers receive about 15.9 cents of every dollar Americans spend on food, with the rest going to off-farm costs like marketing and distribution. Selling at farmers markets cuts out overhead costs, allowing farmers to earn more revenue from what they grow, according to a release. Shopping at a farmers market is a great way to support the community and local farmers directly.

Farmers markets near Lexington County residents include The South Carolina State Farmers Market, Cayce Farmers Market and Chapin Downtown Farmers Market. Local produce stands to visit include Clayton Rawl Farms, Heritage Hill Farms and Creech’s Vegetable Stand.