Are the Twin Cities' Farmers Markets the Best in the Country?

Prized summer fruits are in the spotlight at our farmers markets in Larkspur and Corte Madera, as are fresh local vegetables, fish, meats and cheeses ... not to mention super kitchen creations.

So, how do our markets stack up against others around the country?

A national contest is underway now, and the winner will be determined by voters.

American Farmland Trust, a non-profit group focused on conserving agricultural land, is running its fourth annual America's Favorite Farmers Markets contest this summer.

The contest asks shoppers to vote for the farmers market they like best from a list of more than 7,000 provided by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. Both the Larkspur and Corte Madera markets are on the list. The Corte Madera market at the Town Center is held Wednesdays, noon to 5 p.m. The Larkspur market at Marin Country Mart is held Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Vote for the Larkspur and Corte Madera markets here

Voting ends at midnight on Sept. 3 and winners will be chosen in each of four categories: small, medium, mid-size and large. American Farmland Trust will throw a party for each of the winning markets.

There's also an essay contest in which farmers can write about why participating in markets is important to them, for a chance to win $1,000.

So how about it, folks? Should cities nationwide bow to our farmers market excellence, or what? Click here to vote, and share your thoughts in the comments.

What’s your favorite thing about the Larkspur and Corte Madera Farmers' Markets?