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 Recipes for a July Lake Day, Made Local
Few things say Minnesota summer like a day at the lake—sun on the water, a cooler packed with good food, and time shared with friends and family. And when that food is made with peak-season, locally grown ingredients? Life doesn’t get much better.
We’ve pulled together a crowd-pleasing and travel-ready lake day menu that celebrates the best flavors of the season while supporting the local farmers, growers, and makers who nourish our communities.
 Photo courtesy of Centennial Lakes Farmers' Market
12 Must-Visit Farmers' Markets
Minnesota's farmers' markets are more than just grocery stops; they’re seasonal celebrations of freshness, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Whether you’re stocking your kitchen with local ingredients or simply craving a perfect sun-ripened berry, the markets have something for everyone.
Minnesota Grown collaborated with Explore Minnesota to bring you a list of 12 markets that deliver a dynamic slice of life, bursting with fresh foods and hometown spirit. This is just a sampling of the more than 150 Minnesota Grown member markets spread throughout the state. Find one near your home, work, or favorite weekend getaway (you can even search by route), and get one-click driving directions from the Minnesota Grown directory.
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 Photo taken at Lorence's Berry Farm
What's Your Strawberry Status?
Hey, strawberry lovers, here's your berry update! For fans in southern Minnesota, the clock is ticking, don’t miss your chance to snag those juicy berries before they’re gone! Farther up north, the peak picking is just getting started, so get ready to pick enjoy the sweetest local strawberries of the season.
🍓 Pro tip: Always call ahead or check your local patch’s website or social media because with nature’s mood swings (hello, heat and rain!), berry ripeness and availability can change faster than you can say “yum!”
🫐 And don’t put away your baskets too fast! Blueberries and summer raspberries (along with up-and-comers like aronia berries, currants, and elderberries) will be rolling in soon to keep your berry picking game strong all season long.
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 Photo courtesy of Autumnwood Farm
Local Milk: From Farm to Fridge
When Pat and Sharlene Daninger first started bottling their milk at their farm in Forest Lake, they never imagined their small family farm would become a beloved Twin Cities dairy staple. Autumnwood Farm’s business all began with kindergarten tours of their conventional dairy farm (yep, you read that right!)—and curious parents asking, “Where can we buy your milk?” That, combined with market conditions, motivated them to add a little something special to their business model.
Discover Autumnwood Farm and more local farmers on Minnesota Grown's Facebook and Instagram pages.
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