Not sure if you know this but Sacramento is the “farm-to-fork capital of America”. It is so, because California is just blessed with lots and lots of fertile soil, plentiful sun and decent amount of water for agriculture. Sacramento is located in the northern half of California’s Central Valley, where most of the agriculture is taking place and then exported to the whole country and even the world.
Farmers’ Markets (and there are way more than ten of them all over Sacramento) are a great place to chat with the farmers themselves and learn about their various products and score great prices. There, you can find the freshest harvests of the land. Below, I’ll show you where to head for finding and sampling the best of California’s finest growers in Sacramento. You will find irresistible finds- and bring small change. Just be advised that most of them don’t allow dogs. I believe it’s a health code similar to the restaurants (but don’t quote me on it).
Midtown Farmers Market
Address: 1050 20th St
Open: Saturdays 8-1
Phone: 916-442-1500
With over 200 vendors and 5 blocks long, there is something for everyone. There, you can find local agriculture, prepared foods, artisans, crafters, and services. You may bring the kids along for special kids’ programs and activities. There will be lawn games and bouncy animals at Market Square at 20th and K. If the photos above didn’t get you excited enough to give Midtown Farmers Market a visit, then check out their Instagram page @midtownfarmersmarket
Sacramento Central Farmers’ Market
Address: W St and 8th St (Under Freeway)
Open: Sundays 8-12
Sacramento Central Farmers Market is located at State Parking Lot, 8th & W Streets under Hwy 80. It is one of California’s largest certified farmers’ markets.
Bodega Days Farmers Market (Downtown Sacramento)
Address: Cesar Chavez Plaza | 910 I St
Open: Thursdays, May 4-September 28th 10 – 1
Bodega Days Farmer Market takes place at Cesar Chavez Plaza in heart of Downtown Sacramento. You can buy some fresh produce, grab a sandwich and go for a walk in Capitol Park, just a few blocks away.
Oak Park Farmers Market
Address: 3500 5th Ave
Open: Saturdays 9-1 From May to November
This farmers market takes place in McClatchy park. It is a smaller farmers market but it is packed with quality vendors and also workshops and storytellers. If any questions, call 916-452-5356
Saturday Farmers’ Market (Arden-Arcade)
Address: 2405 Butano Dr
Open: Saturdays 8-noon
This farmers market is only 8 miles east of downtown Sacramento just off of Watt Ave and Butano Dr.
Historic Folsom Farmers’ Market
Address: 915 Sutter St
Open: Saturdays 8-1
Come for the Farmers’ Market, stay for everything else. There are plenty to do in Folsom so, after putting your merchandise in the car, you can spend a whole day touring Folsom and all it has to offer. Just make sure your fresh fruits and vegetables don’t go bad if it’s a hot day. If you are wondering what you can do in Folsom, visit my page on Folsom and see what’s there to do.
Carmichael Park Farmers’ Market
Address: Carmichael Park, 5750 Grant Ave
Open: Sundays 9 to 2
This one is located about 13 miles north east of downtown Sacramento in Carmichael. Here you can expect to find over 60 vendors, free parking, certified organic fruits and vegetables, eggs, honey, fresh pet foods and more.
Old Town Elk Grove Farmers’ Market
Address: 9615 Railroad Street
Open: Sundays 9 to 2
About 16 miles south of downtown Sacramento, this farmers market is located in the city of Elk Grove. They just re-opened in 2022, after a huge renovation. It is supposed to be really beautiful.
Natomas Farmers’ Market
Address: 2501 New Market Dr
Open: Saturdays 8 to 12
Natomas is located 17 minutes of Downtown Sacramento and this farmers’ market is located in North Natomas Regional Park.
Mohany Park Farmers’ Market (Roseville)
Address: 1545 Pleasant Grove
Open: Sundays 9 to 2
Located 35 minutes north east of downtown Sacramento, there’s free parking, baked goods and everything else you can expect to find in Farmers’ Market. If you are in Roseville/Rocklin area, you will find plenty to do. You may visit my page on that neighborhood here.
Almost every neighborhood in Sacramento has a farmers market. These were just some I picked for my blog. If you think I’ve missed a good one, drop me a line and I’ll be more than glad to add it to the list.
