Throw a carrot in any direction in Los Angeles, and you’ll probably hit a farmers market. That’s just one beautiful thing about living in Southern California: Gorgeous year-round fresh produce. It’s the reason chefs move here and open restaurants, why so many people are always posting their #markethauls on Instagram. We’ve got the goods, and we want to shout it from the rooftops.
While there are excellent farmers markets around Downtown and 1133 Hope, making a special trip to others around LA is a great reason for getting out of the neighborhood. We’ve selected five from the hundreds you can find around the Southland, from nearby Historic Core to the mama of all organic farmers markets in Santa Monica. To see even more, check out the super helpful Los Angeles Times map.
Some things to keep in mind for living in the time of Covid: Please don’t forget your mask; follow all entry, exit and one-way signs at the markets; keep your distance from others; don’t touch what you’re not going to buy; and above all, please stay in your new beautiful home if you’re feeling sick. It’s a smart move to check any market’s website or social media pages to make sure it’s open the day you want to visit, too. PS: Don’t forget to take a tote bag for all that gorgeous seasonal bounty!
Historic Downtown Farmers Market
This Sunday market takes place under the watchful eye of some of DTLA’s most historic buildings. In addition to farmers bringing fresh produce every week, there’s also natural organic beauty products, pastries and empanadas, dips and spreads, breads, pet food and products, and so much more made by local vendors. Located on 5th Street between Broadway and Spring Street. Sundays 9am-3pm
South Pasadena Farmers Market
One of the best evening markets in town is also an easy jaunt from the South Park neighborhood — even by train! Spend some time in leafy South Pasadena, buy produce from top-notch vendors like McGrath Farms, Bernard Ranch and Yasutomi Farms, and check out local restaurants nearby before or after. Located on Meridian Avenue and El Centro Street next to the Metro Gold Line South Pasadena Station. Thursdays 4-8pm
Atwater Village Farmers Market
There are a lot of Sunday markets, but the Atwater Village feels like just that: a village. It’s not one of the largest, but it gets huge points for the family-friendly vibe and energy, plus some of the most popular farmers are there, many chefs rely on like Tutti Frutti and Kenter Family Farms, along with other locally made goods. It’s also surrounded by great grab-and-go or patio restaurants like All’Acqua, Dune, Proof and more, so it’s like a two-for-one outing. 3528 Larga Avenue in Public Parking Lot 646. Sundays 10am-2pm
Hollywood Farmers Market
One of the longest running farmers markets in LA is still one of the best. More than 100 farmers, producers and food artisans are there selling everything from roasted almonds to peanut butter, honey, jams, candles, spice mixes and more. You’ll find amazing avocados, citrus, heirloom tomatoes, potatoes and lettuces as far as the eye can see. When allowed once again, the charming market buskers and food vendors add color and vibe that makes it feel like Hollywood. Located at the intersection of Ivar and Selma between Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. Sundays 8am-1pm
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Shop like some of the city’s best chefs do at the largest grower-only Certified Farmers Market in Southern California. Whether you’re looking for apples or something more exotic like sapote, dragon fruit or edible flowers, this is the place for fruits, vegetables, flowers, meats, nuts, plants and seedlings, cured olives, pickles, salsa, cheeses and so much more. If you’re looking for goods but not able to make the trek to Santa Monica, see which vendors offer CSA boxes and shipping here. Arizona at 2nd Street. Wednesday is the big day but there’s a Saturday market as well. 8am-1pm both days