Before you load up your grocery cart with mediocre veggies, or skip over fruit all together, stop by your local farmers market where colors, aromas, and local flavors abound. Browse displays of fresh organic produce, gluten-free goodness and unique crafts from local artisans.
Before you load up your grocery cart with mediocre veggies, or skip over fruit all together, stop by your local farmers market where colors, aromas, and local flavors abound. (Flickr: NatalieMaynor)
Here are eight great local farmers markets and when and where to find them in Southwest Riverside — and beyond. Watch the addresses — farmers markets are notorious for their vague directions.
Temecula Certified Farmers Market – Promenade Temecula
This is the precursor to the main Temecula Old Town farmers market event. There will be fewer vendors and artisans than the weekend in Old Town, but what you will find is a treat. It’s a great place to pick up a grower’s bunch of flowers, or fresh fruit and vegetables for your mid-week table after shopping at the mall. The event runs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays in the parking area outside JC Penny at Promenade Temecula.
Canyon Lake Certified Farmers Market
In Canyon Lake, you’ll find a gem of a farmers market nestled between the I-215 and the I-15. Smaller in scale, this rain-or-shine market showcases typical to unique vendors and delicious treats. Try a YaYa’s fish taco and you’ll go back for more. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays at 31516 Railroad Canyon Rd. in the Canyon Lake Towne Center parking lot.
Corona Certified Farmers Market
Corona residents can purchase locally-grown fresh flowers, tamales, fresh bread, peanuts, hummus, cakes, pies, and more from over twenty growers and artisans. The market runs from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays — rain or shine — at 480 N Main St., at the Main Street Marketplace, across from the Fender Museum.
If you’re heading south on the I-15 for the weekend, stop by Fallbrook’s Farmer’s market for produce, flowers, clothing, hand crafts, and traditional San Diego local flavor. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays at the corner of Main and Alvardo. 
Idyllwild Mountain Harvest Farmers Market
What could be better than an open air market in a mountain town? Selling all the same farmers market fare, you’ll find this unique artisan market open rain or shine. The market is scheduled from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Friday and is located at 54423 Village Center Dr. at the Strawberry Creek Plaza, across from the post office.
This is one of Southern California’s favorite farmers markets for fifteen years and running. With over 140 vendors selling ready-made food, bountiful produce, ethnic fare, and health and alternative foods to satisfy every palate — there is something for everyone. The market runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays at 3960 Normal Street (in the Hillcrest DMV parking lot), at the corner of Lincoln Street and Normal Ave.
Temecula Old Town Farmers Market
Rain or shine for 21 years, Saturday sees a larger number of easy-ups and vendors at the north end of Old Town. Locally grown flowers, fruit, vegetables, the ever-popular kettle corn, and home-made products are showcased as artisans gather to sell their wares. The market kicks off at 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays at 28464 Old Town Front St, at the corner of 6th and Front St. in Old Town Temecula.
This well-attended farmers market includes local fruits, vegetables, and quality gourmet fare. The market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays off Kalmia Street at Village Walk Plaza.
As is common with farmers markets, items may vary by region and time of year. And remember to pick yourself up a grower’s bunch of flowers. Because we all deserve it!
Do you have a favorite farmers market we didn’t mention? Feel free to add it to our list.
Ashley Ludwig is a local writer and regular contributor to SWRNN.
Loading ...
