We’ve all heard it: buying local is better for the environment, you, and your local economy. As a California native and West Coast enthusiast, I can say for sure it’s worth it to hit up your local farmers’ market to get the freshest produce, and learn more about what grows well in your area. If you get a chance, be sure to check out these 9 and let us know your fave places to get amazing produce in your area.
Ferry Plaza Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of CUESA & The Ferry Plaza Farmers’ Market on Facebook
Scenic views, savvy shoppers, and incredible local produce make this one a must-see if you’re in San Francisco. It’s open every day, so you don’t have an excuse not to go… Plus, it’s inside the beautiful Ferry building, so even if it’s raining you can get your fruit and veg on.
Davis Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of @mhalajian on Instagram
With close proximity to the heart of California’s produce, you have to check out this epic market. It’s held Wednesday afternoons and Sunday mornings, and hosts awesome events during peak times of year. It’s friendly, fun, and often includes fun booths that sell more than just food.
San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of the San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market on Facebook
This market offers major meal potential on top of the amazing local produce. Be sure to check out the pulled pork while you’re there and enjoy the musicians. This market is every Thursday (except Thanksgiving, of course.)
Santa Monica Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of @specialtyproduce on Instagram
If you thought all there was to do in Santa Monica is walk on the beach and go shopping, you’re dead wrong. You can check out the Santa Monica farmers’ market filled with vendors, fresh produce, and celeb sightings every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Pike Place Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of Pike Place Market on Facebook
While Pike Place is great for restaurants, coffee, and shopping locals know they can grab great produce and amazing meats from the Farmers’ market. It’s every Wednesday evening June-October, so be sure to check it out.
Olympia Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of the Olympia Farmers’ Market on Facebook
While the hours and days rotate based on the season, there’s always amazing produce, artisans and entertainment. We’d highly recommend checking out the cheese vendors, and enjoying the live music every market day when you visit.
Portland State University Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of @portlandfarmers on Instagram
This market is every Saturday, and features the best food, produce and flowers in the area. It may seem overwhelming at first, but it’s worth checking out all the stalls to see what they have to offer. Take our advice on this one: go hungry. You’re gonna want to be able to partake in everything from donuts to delicious baked goods and homemade salsas while you’re there.
Salem Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy of the Salem Farmers’ Market on Facebook
While this isn’t as large as some of the others, it’s a staple in Salem. You can enjoy the town while snacking on local food and checking out the artisans. It’s every Saturday starting in April, so be sure to check it out.
Umpqua Valley Farmers’ Market
Photo courtesy Barbara Anderson on Facebook
This market supplies the valley with some of the best produce Oregon has to offer. Every Saturday, you can enjoy meat, eggs and fresh produce. Bonus: make sure you check out the local honey and artisans. It’s just the treat you need to go with all that healthy produce.