The weekly Downtown Farmers Market on Arizona drew hundreds of eager shoppers Saturday, all out to enjoy the sunshine and the very best organic and fresh local produce that vendors have on offer.
The inaugural Santa Monica Farmers Market was held in 1981, with the aim of providing produce that was both high quality and reasonably priced. The first downtown farmers market was held in 1991, and continues to feature the largest percentage of organic produce of each of the four Santa Monica farmers markets.
On Saturday, May 27, the response from locals was both warm and appreciative. While the location of the market benefits in part from Third Street Promenade foot traffic, a large percentage of shoppers were not just browsing produce, but purchasing their weekly wares. Most vendors were kept on their toes for much of the day.
Stall holders are often the crafters of the produce that they sell, giving the market an edge over regular grocery shopping. Laszlo, who was selling goat cheese at a corner stand, wanted to be sure all visitors gave his cheese a try before the market let up.
The full schedule of Santa Monica farmers markets is as follows:
Wednesday Downtown: 8:30am – 1:30pm
Saturday Downtown: 8:30am – 1pm
Saturday Virginia Ave Park: 8am – 1pm
Sunday Main Street: 9:30 am – 1pm
