Los Angeles might be known for Hollywood glamor and beautiful beaches, but for many Angelenos, the city’s heart beats in its vibrant farmers’ markets. Did you know that there are about 800 certified farmers markets in California and approximately 2,500 certified producers? Of these markets, 50 percent are year-round markets. Here are our favorite farmers’ markets in West Los Angeles. These markets are excellent places to support local businesses. Bookmark this guide and get your shopping basket ready!
The Venice Farmers’ Market is a typical vibrant outdoor market retailing fresh local produce. This market has about 20-30 vendors, which I like, as I find the larger markets overwhelming. It features vendors that sell the best of California’s seasonal offerings. Marketgoers can expect booths retailing good quality fruits, vegetables, and other farm products alongside prepared foods and handcrafted goods. From this farmers’ market, I typically purchase hummus, dips, yogurt, and Mediterranean appetizers from Moms Products, fresh pasta and Italian sauces from Antipasti, and fresh vegetables and fruits from Harry’s Berries and Maggie’s Farm.
Where: 500 Venice Blvd., Venice.
When: Every Friday; 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Located at Runway, Playa Vista, this farmers’ market is one of the largest in West Los Angeles. Every Saturday, it takes over Millennium Drive between Village Dr. and McConnell Avenue. At Playa Vista’s Farmers’ Market, you can purchase organic fruits, seasonal vegetables, local meat, fresh flowers, baked bread, french pastries, artisanal cheese, nut butter, salsa and guacamole, handmade jewelry, and more. I also appreciate that several vendors at this market provide complimentary tastings of their produce. The Playa Vista Farmers’ Market also has retailers serving unique breakfast or lunch options, such as Venezuelan arepas and wood-fired pizza. Visitors can shop and relax with their favorite food at one of the outdoor tables. Moreover, this market also hosts live musical and entertainment performances, including jazz and pop bands, and has a dedicated KidZone, and a community compost hub.
Where: 12775 Millennium Dr., Playa Vista.
When: Every Saturday; 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Mar Vista Farmers’ Market hosts stalls by farmers retailing farm fresh fruits, vegetables, grass-fed meats and cheeses, fresh-squeezed juices, and sustainably caught, wild local seafood from the waters of California. Along with its fresh produce, this bustling farmers’ market’s prepared foods are also wildly popular. I suggest grabbing food from vendors such as Homeboy Bakery, Aris Natural Foods, Oaxaca Raw, and ChocoVivo, and making your way to the dining tent. In addition, this market also has a designated section for the Mar Vista Arts and Crafts Collective, which features stalls by artisans selling arresting jewelry, pottery, handmade scarves, and more. Mar Vista Farmers’ Market is my go-to market for when I have out-of-town visitors, as it has vendors retailing delectable prepared food and local artists retailing their wares.
Where: 12198 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles.
When: Sunday; 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market
Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market is steps away from the serene Mother’s Beach. This market retails beautiful flowers, fresh produce, and creative gifts including handmade jewelry, and home decor, which make thoughtful gifts for loved ones. Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market hosts similar vendors as the other farmers’ markets but has a relaxed vibe due to its proximity to the beach. It’s also a venue for fun music performances.
Where: 14101 Panay Way, Lot #11, Marina del Rey.
When: Saturday; 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Santa Monica Sunday Main Street Farmers’ Market
The Santa Monica Sunday Main Street Farmers’ Market features booths from approximately 40 certified California farms retailing fresh produce, meats, dairy products, flowers, and artisanal goods. This market was founded in 1995 by the Main Street Business Improvement Association, Ocean Park Association, the Victorian, and the Heritage Museum. The Santa Monica Sunday Main Street Farmers’ Market also hosts live entertainment, interactive activities for children, and stalls from Main Street-based retail vendors, which makes it a fun place to spend a Sunday morning with family and friends.
Where: 2640 Main St, Santa Monica.
When: Sundays, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Photo of Playa Vista Farmers’ Market Courtesy of Playa Vista Farmers’ Market.
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