The Raleigh State Farmers Market is fun for the whole family. It's the largest in the state of North Carolina and open daily, except for Christmas. It's a perfect outing in the early morning on a Saturday. The vendors are friendly and you'll get not only a taste of their wares, but their deep Carolina accent. Just a few of the items you'll find include fresh flowers, sweet potatoes (a Carolina must), a variety of candy, Moravian cookies, red velvet cake, German chocolate cake, tomatoes, cucumbers, jams, jellies, fruits, quilts, and more.

Peruse through 75 acres of indoor and outdoor specialty shops; restaurants; garden center; fruits, vegetables and gift products from across the state. The outdoor pavilion is strictly North Carolina vendors and the indoor building has shops from everywhere. It's a bright and colorful market and I'm sure you'll go home loaded up with great finds and wonderful treats.

Admission is free. 1201 Agriculture St., 919.733.7417. Hours: Every day except Christmas, Mon.-Sat., 5am-8pm; Sun., noon-6pm. For more information, feel free to contact the Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau, http://www.raleighcvb.org/other.html or visit@raleighcvb.org