In the 1950s, California’s farmers’ markets were on the brink of extinction. They were nearly wiped out by regulations that helped make the state’s agriculture a global phenomenon. Sorting, packaging, transporting, and selling were so finely tuned for the mass market that it was virtually impossible for farmers to bypass wholesale distributors. Everything changed in 1978 when Governor Jerry Brown signed the state’s Direct Marketing Act.
Over the past 35 years, the agricultural market has grown rapidly, and now the state hosts around 700 farmers’ markets, over 300 CSAs, and countless stalls where Americans can buy products directly from farmers.
Want to combine business with pleasure? Visiting a farmers’ market in the Golden State is not just about buying fresh produce, but a whole adventure. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of real California, talk to farmers, learn the secrets of growing organic products, and of course, fill your basket with juicy fruits, aromatic vegetables, and other delicacies. Support local producers and contribute to the development of eco-friendly agriculture at these ten best markets in the state.
1. Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, San Francisco
Locals, ferry passengers, and tourists flock to the bustling market near the Ferry Building three days a week. It is impossible to pass by dozens of stalls of farmers, bakers, cheesemakers, chocolatiers, handmade craftsmen, as well as chefs preparing amazing street food.
After enjoying pizza, kebabs, and tacos, wash it all down with a cup of aromatic coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee, which offers one of the best blends in the city. And if you crave something sweet, head to the Humphry Slocombe ice cream shop or the Recchiuti Confections for handmade chocolates and pastries.
Location: Embarcadero & Green Street, Ferry Building
Hours: Year-round, 8:00am–2:00pm on Saturdays, 10:00am–2:00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays
2. Davis Farmers Market, Davis
The Davis Farmers Market is held on Wednesdays during the day and Saturday mornings in the friendly college town — the local University of California was originally founded as an agricultural research center. The fertile lands of Yolo County yield tons of grapes, rice, and alfalfa, and produce 90% of the nation’s canned and processed tomatoes.
Among the well-known vendors are Upper Crust Baking Company, offering a wide range of delicious baked goods, and Halog Farm with their meat and poultry raised in eco-friendly conditions.
This market in the greenery-covered Central Park becomes even more festive on Wednesday evenings from mid-March to October, when Picnic in the Park takes place. There are wine and beer tastings, new food stalls appear, local bands perform, and ponies wander around.
Location: Central Park, 301 C St., Davis
Hours: Year-round, 10:00am–1:00pm on Saturdays, and seasonally 4:30pm–8:30pm on Wednesdays
3. Santa Monica Farmers Market, Santa Monica
The Santa Monica Farmers Market is the place to go if you’re looking for delicious and enjoyable activities in the city. It’s a true feast for gourmets: more than 85 vendors sell vegetables, baked goods, and artisanal items. The family-run Coleman farm is one of the most notable vendors, selling organic fruits and vegetables, including heirloom tomatoes and rainbow carrots. Another popular vendor, Harry’s Berries, is famous for its juicy and tasty strawberries.
The market features live music from local bands, and during a leisurely stroll, you can sample artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and the best regional dishes.
Location: 2640 Main St., Santa Monica
Hours: Year-round, 8:30am–1:30pm on Sundays
4. Sacramento Sunday Farmers’ Markets, Sacramento
In the state capital of Sacramento (also known as the Farm-to-Fork Capital), there’s an attractive collection of farmers’ markets sponsored by Certified Farmers’ Markets of Sacramento County. The main one, which is also one of the largest certified farmers’ markets in the state, is held on Sundays at the intersection of Wand 8th streets. Here you can try everything from exotic to familiar: fresh Thai lemongrass, black Spanish radish, and Tokyo turnips sit alongside plump tomatoes, juicy berries, and take-out treats — fresh pastries and golden waffles.
Location: W and 8th Street, Downtown Sacramento
Hours: Year-round, 8am-12pm on Sundays
5. Hollywood Farmers Market, Los Angeles
The Hollywood Farmers Market is the best place in Los Angeles if you’re looking for fresh, locally grown produce. The market on Ivar Avenue, south of Sunset Boulevard, is open every Sunday and is one of the best in Los Angeles.
Two must-visit vendors are the stall selling the creamiest avocados you’ve ever tasted, and the stall where you can buy freshly baked bread, including sourdough, whole grain, and gluten-free options.
Several food stalls serve tacos, pupusas, falafel, and other delicious treats. And be sure to check out the flower stall for beautiful plants.
Location: 1600 Ivar Ave, Los Angeles
Hours: Year-round, 8:00am-1:00pm on Sundays
6. The San Luis Obispo Farmers Market, San Luis Obispo
Many local college students consider Thursday the best day of the week because it’s the day of the Downtown SLO farmers’ market, which spans five blocks and features more than 120 farmers and vendors, as well as ready-made food stalls, artists, musicians, and singers.
At the center of the fair is a collection of massive round barbecues, and the aroma of sizzling pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, lamb, and tri-tip, as well as artichokes and corn on the cob, will whet anyone’s appetite. And if you love cheese, visit the Stepladder Creamery stall to try their incredible handmade cheeses.
Location: 778 Higuera St Ste B, San Luis Obispo
Hours: Year-round, 6:00pm–9:00pm on Thursdays
7. The Downtown Santa Cruz Farmers Market, Santa Cruz
This thriving market operates year-round and is one of the main farmers’ markets in California. Here you can find the best selection of local organic products — from juicy tomatoes and crunchy corn to aromatic herbs and exotic fruits. The market also serves ethnic dishes such as naan and curry, Japanese fermented miso, Eritrean dishes, crepes, El Salvadorean pupusas, traditional Italian cookies, and more.
But the market is much more than just food. Local musicians perform here, and numerous charitable and educational events take place — it’s the perfect place to listen to live blues and have a snack in the middle of the week.
Location: Cedar St & Lincoln St, Downtown Santa Cruz
Hours: Year-round, May through October 1:00pm–6:00pm, November through April 1:00pm–5:00pm on Wednesdays
8. Santa Barbara Farmers Market, Santa Barbara
The abundance of sunshine, moderate climate, and plentiful rainfall make Santa Barbara a year-round cornucopia of fresh organic produce. Many local chefs source their ingredients within a 100-mile radius.
The freshest vegetables in town can be found at Valdivia Farms. Here you can also find exquisite baked goods, aromatic olive oil, unfiltered honey, nuts, and delicious sweets.
This California farmers’ market offers not only delicious food but also a sense of community. Friendly vendors and happy buyers meet and chat, and singers with guitars attract crowds of listeners against the backdrop of the old town’s Spanish architecture.
Location: 119 E. Cota St., Santa Barbara
Hours: Year-round, 8:00am–1:00pm on Saturdays
9. South Pasadena Farmers Market, South Pasadena
This picturesque farmers’ market on Thursdays is filled with fresh produce, artisanal items, and treats: from wonderfully ripe fruits and vegetables to exquisite cheeses, fresh bread, and roasted coffee.
There are about 80 stalls, half of which sell hot and packaged food, while the others offer agricultural products and homemade preserves.
The South Pasadena Farmers Market is the perfect place to breathe fresh air and enjoy the atmosphere of a delicious festival.
Location: 920 Meridian Ave, S Pasadena
Hours: Year-round, 4:00pm–8:00pm on Thursdays
10. Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, San Diego
Every Wednesday and Saturday, rain or shine, up to 175 vendors line up along several blocks of Little Italy, selling products (both organic and conventional) and ready-made dishes, so you should come hungry.
Try Korean BBQ and savory crepes, or buy unique products like sweet jalapeño relish, cashew croutons, Argentinian chimichurri sauce, avocado oil, fruit-flavored ginger beer, apple blossom honey, or mead.
It’s also the perfect place to buy gifts: candles, soap, knitted baby clothes, glass and gemstone jewelry made by local artisans.
Location: West Date Street starting from Kettner Boulevard, San Diego
Hours: Year-round, 9:30am–1:00pm on Wednesdays and 8:00am–2:00pm on Saturdays
