For some people, it’s about the pool. For others, it might be the sunshine, warmer temperatures or even the freedom that comes from having a more relaxed schedule.

Then there’s that group of people who are all about the food — sweet, juicy strawberries, green beans with a distinctive snap and ripened tomatoes freshly picked from the garden.

The best part is that there is literally something to delight every Michigander’s tastebuds.

“There are so many favorites! Michigan’s climate is ideal for growing such a wide variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the summer, and especially, for producing very flavorful fruit,” said Janice Benson, executive director of Michigan Agritourism.

Strawberries are the quintessential summer fruit. Since they tend to arrive just as school gets out, for many people they mark the beginning of summer. Benson explained that Michigan strawberries are generally smaller than the huge berries that are typically shipped in to grocery stores, but nothing beats fresh, ripe, local strawberries and their sweetness. An added bonus: Children love to visit a strawberry U-pick patch to pluck their own berries, she added.

With Michigan produce, there is definitely never a dull moment.

“The landscape of summer produce looks different from month to month,” said Hailey Lamb, director of communications for the Michigan Farmers Market Association. “In June, you can expect to find spring favorites like strawberries, asparagus and peas. In July, cherries and blueberries are common sights alongside popular veggies like carrots and celery.”

Michigan farmers produce a bounty of good eating. Visit a local farm, farmers market or roadside fruit and veggie stand for a rainbow of produce at the peak of its freshness, flavor and nutrition. Visitors also can discover unique varieties of common fruits and vegetables and may even be able to speak directly with the grower about how to use these new finds in recipes.

“I always encourage people to take a farm tour whenever you can. You can learn so much and you can’t help but come away with a new appreciation for our farmers and the hard work that it takes to grow food,” Benson said.

The possibilities are endless.

“In August, there are almost too many choices to count! Look for everything from sweet raspberries and apples to savory cabbage and cucumbers,” said Lamb, adding that there are a few staples people can expect to find all market season long, like leafy salad greens and mushrooms.

Some wait all year for their favorite produce to become available. Michigan blueberries are a good example. Benson said they are so versatile and can be enjoyed both fresh and frozen.

“I recommend purchasing or picking an extra quart or two, so you can freeze them and enjoy in pancakes, muffins, pies and smoothies throughout the year,” she said.

Don’t overlook the Great Lake State’s plump peaches, either. Benson said people tend to think peaches are a southern fruit, but Michigan grows some very lovely peaches.

“If you haven’t tried a fresh, juicy donut peach or a Michigan peach pie, you are missing out on one of our state’s spectacular summer fruits,” she said.

Many of these produce varieties can be enjoyed long after the growing season has ended if they are canned, dried or frozen. Plus, their versatility allows them to be prepared in many different ways: Fry some potatoes in a skillet, roast carrots in the oven, bake blackberries into a cobbler, toss a bundle of asparagus on the grill or add fresh strawberries to the blender for a smoothie, for example.

Another way to savor the seasonal harvest is to take it with you in a picnic basket, a beach cooler or on a family road trip. When doing this, Lamb suggests looking for items that can withstand time spent in warm weather.

“Items like cut fruit and vegetables, dairy products and cooked foods are not safe to consume without careful time and temperature control. Look for

Michigan farmers market items like dried fruit, granola bars, baked goods and popcorn to enjoy on the go,” she said.

When packing a cooler with perishable food, make sure to pack these items directly from your fridge or freezer. If you’re bringing a combination of ready-to-eat and raw foods you plan to cook on site, like raw meat, keep them wrapped separately to avoid cross-contamination, Lamb said. Also, don’t forget to wash the produce — and your hands — before digging in.

As always, safety comes first.

“Food safety is always in season, whether you’re enjoying a meal at home or on the go,” she said.

Lamb offered these tips:

• When grilling, always use a food thermometer to ensure the food you’re cooking reaches a safe internal temperature to enjoy. What’s considered safe will depend on the type and cut of meat you choose.

• Use separate utensils for raw and cooked foods.

• Keep an eye on the clock. All leftovers must be stored in clean containers and refrigerated promptly. If food is left out at room temperature, it must be discarded after two hours.

• Choose a picnic location near running water so you can properly wash your hands before, during and after handling food. You also should wash all fresh produce under cool, running water before enjoying it as is or preparing it.

Want to share your favorite flavors with friends and family out of state? Send them a Michigan-themed basket filled with specialty items straight from the local farmers market.

“Loose leaf herbal tea paired with local honey is a lightweight and easy-to-ship way to share Michigan farmer market fresh flavors. If you’re gifting locally, make it even more special by including a handmade mug by a Michigan artisan,” Lamb said.

Local farms and food producers use Michigan’s harvest in a variety of specialty foods and products, including jams, jellies, salsas, fruit toppings, pies, baked goods, beverages and snacks, like potato chips, kale chips, dried berry nut mixes and strawberry, blueberry and peach ice cream. Chefs use local produce in an endless variety of entrees, sandwiches, salads and desserts, Benson said.

Shipping fresh produce and delicate products isn’t always practical, but there are ways to share the season’s best offerings, including jams and jellies made with Michigan fruit, that can be enjoyed anywhere across the country.

“If you’re shopping for someone who has a more adventurous palette, look for one-of-a-kind items like specialty hot sauce or condiments made with Michigan peppers and herbs, dried herb blends or specialty jerky,” recommended Lamb.

To find what you need, use MIFMA’s Find a Farmers Market Feature to search for markets by ZIP code, county, day of the week and food assistance programs accepted. Visit mifma.org/find-a-farmers-market.

The 2024 Michigan Farm Directory is another resource to help you find farms that you can visit throughout Michigan. It comes in a printed version or online at michiganfarmfun.com. Printed copies are available at Farm Bureau Insurance offices across the state, Michigan welcome centers and many tourist offices and farm locations.