Who could resist fresh California produce, ethnic specialties and all the unique jewelry imaginable? The Farmers’ Markets of Los Angeles are the best places to pick up these things and hundreds more. Like mini-street fairs, Farmers’ Markets allow for hundreds of small businesses and farm owners to set-up booths and sell their products directly to the public who supports them.



Most Farmers’ Markets are open one select day per week in each designated area. The Hollywood Farmers’ Market, a Los Angeles favorite, is open every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Smack in the middle of Hollywood (located on Ivar and Selma Avenue), the market brings a sense of community to this area that’s not be particularly known for its camaraderie among residents. Nevertheless, each Sunday morning the residents of Hollywood come together to support their local artists, musicians, farmers and bakers by doing their grocery shopping, grabbing a bite for lunch or simply browsing the selections.



Typically, for a very small amount of cash you can pick up a ring or necklace made by a local jeweler or a T-shirt or dress created by local seamstresses, all the while listening to the crooning or instrument playing of local musicians. The best part is you can have a wonderful Sunday morning enjoying the Southern California outdoors, and it doesn’t have to cost you a dime.



This exceptional open-air street market has more than 90 farmers who participate each week, 30 local artisans and 30 baked goods and prepared food vendors who all sell their own products. In addition, the Hollywood Farmers’ Market hosts street musicians as well as local non-profit community organizations and free special events for the community including chef demonstrations and cookbook signings.



If Saturday is a better shopping day for you, check out the Central Avenue Farmers’ Market in L.A. Located at 43 Street and Central Avenue, the market is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Central Avenue Market is considered a mini-market because of its smaller size. In addition to the 5-7 farmers selling fresh fruits and vegetables, the market hosts events including healthy cooking demonstrations, tastings, a salsa contest, Spring into Health activities, free raffles, live music, craft workshops and pumpkin carving.



Another mini-market that Los Angeles has to offer is the Hollywood Sears Farmers’ Market. This mid-week market (open on Wednesdays from 12:30-5:30 p.m.) is located in the Sears parking lot on Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood. Strolling through the parking lot you will see that this modest market specializes in all sorts of farm fresh fruits and vegetables. To find the best pomegranates, tangerines, avocados, spinach and green beans don’t miss this market.



California farmers grow the best fresh produce in the country and at the Farmers’ Markets it is all at your fingertips along with fun and funky jewelry, clothing, pottery and plants. Some vendors even offer chiropractic services and mini massages for your stressed out body. No matter which market you choose, the Farmers’ Markets of Los Angeles are a great place to spend the afternoon and an even greater place to support local farmers. And thanks to the ideal weather we are blessed with in sunny Southern California, all the markets are open year round for our enjoyment.



For more information, visit www.farmernet.com.