Local Farmers’ Markets
The Riverside Downtown Farmers’ Market is a place for area farmers to sell their seasonal crops directly to customers. When Tara and I first heard about this, we had just started taking our healthy eating to the next level, so this was perfect timing. Instead of driving a car to the market and contributing to polluting the environment, we ride our bicycles. Exercise… pollution reduction… healthy food… what a great way to start almost each and every weekend.
Located on the Main Street Pedestrian Mall between 5th and 6th Streets (adjacent to the Mission Inn) in the arts and culture district of downtown Riverside, it provides a unique opportunity to shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, hummus, aged gouda cheese by Winchester Cheese Co., fresh baked bread from Old Towne Baking Co. and other specialty food items.
Open every SATURDAY from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
A photo of my beach cruiser’s handlebar basket overflowing with my farmers’ market haul a couple of weekends ago. Nectarines, plums, cherries, strawberries, blueberries, cabbage, broccoli, corn, eggplant, etc. all for under $30!
Every FRIDAY from 8 a.m. to noon at the Sears parking lot (corner of Streeter and Arlington) is the original Riverside Certified Farmers’ Market open rain or shine at the same location for over 25 years! This farmers’ market specializes in local ‘mom & pop’ farms and organic backyard gardeners that offer everything from heirloom tomatoes to ancient varieties of corn. Because growing your own food is the healthiest, these farmers give friendly farming advice.
In addition to the organic farmers, there are local bakeries, fresh cut flowers, hot roasted peanuts, local honey, potted orchids, and a colorful assortment of local artisans including hand-mined stone jewelry and natural soy candles. Some vendors accept Visa and MasterCard, and there’s an ATM machine on the premises.
No matter which Farmers’ Market you attend, maybe even both, please be sure to wear comfortable shoes, a hat (or umbrella) and bring your canvas shopping bags. We’ll see you there!
