With a wide range of local produce and products, Santa Barbara farmers markets help residents and local restaurants create delicious meals. From organic vegetables and fruits to locally made jams, a visit to the market is a fun way to liven up dinner as well as connect with the community.
Like many vibrant cities all over the world, the farmers markets in Santa Barbara are one of the ways the community comes together. With markets usually scheduled 7 days a week within a 10 mile radius of downtown, there’s always a place to shop for high quality ingredients and catch up on the local news with neighbors and friends.
The most well known markets are downtown on both Saturday and Tuesday. Saturday’s market runs from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the corner of Santa Barbara and Cota Streets. Tuesday’s market is found on the 500 and 600 blocks of State Street with winter hours of 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and summer hours of 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., allowing for the changes in daylight saving time. The markets overflow with the sheer abundance of nature and the variety and quality of the produce is astounding. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, flowers, honey, jams, soaps and everything else under the sun is presented fresh and locally grown or made. Street performers are on hand to entertain and it’s easy to meet up with friends or make new ones.
On Sunday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and Thursday between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., the corner of Storke and Hollister in the Camina Real Shopping Center is dedicated to farmers markets known for their unique seasonal items. This is the place to find rare produce grown locally and try something new. The market moves to the La Cumbre Plaze Shopping Center for Wednesday and stays open 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., allowing for plenty of time to shop.
Thursday’s market is in the 800 block of Linden Avenue in Carpinteria. Lasting from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the winter and 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the summer, this market is filled with freshly baked bread, beautiful local flowers, and fresh produce. Heading to Montecito, the farmers market for Friday runs from 8:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. and is found in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Coast Village Road. Flowers, both plants and cut, abound and the beautiful views of the mountains and ocean add to the enjoyment of the day.
Farmers markets are a part of life in Santa Barbara. In the midst of busy schedules, residents make sure to visit the market to meet with friends and neighbors and celebrate the joy of beautiful, local ingredients.