‘Tis the season for farmer’s markets everywhere, and the best (in my opinion) is the European Market, located right in downtown Chesterton.

My regular stops: the cheese tent (get here early and the long line is worth it!) Might I suggest the raspberry beer cheese. Amazing! Also, Sahara, a Mediterranean restaurant in Michigan City often has a tent selling hummus and pita. And fresh flowers- there’s always someone selling them for an awesome price. Today I got a bouquet of peonies for $7! Later on in the season I buy almost all my fresh vegetable produce here.

Beware of dogs: MANY people bring their dogs- which is cool!- and lots of them get all festive for the occasion and put clothes on them and stuff. It’s fun. But keep in mind not all of them are on a leash, and if you have grabby grabbers for kids, you know, keep close watch.

Some highlights: This week I was excited to see several new vendors including Bits and Pieces Tees and Shambora Studios. Bonus- I found out the coffee truck gives free refills on iced tea! AND my friends were the band providing musical inspiration and entertainment. So fun.

Personally, my favorite way to enjoy the market is to bring along my re-usable bags and a good friend. But, often I have to go with the whole family. Take time to grab some lunch, have a seat at a picnic table and let the kids run around the big gazebo.

Maybe I’ll see you next week!

Stephanie is Mom to three boys & a baby girl in Valparaiso, IN and blogs daily at Adventures In Babywearing . Follow her on Twitter- she’s babysteph .