Must See Farmers Market
Contributed by Jennifer Harrison
Small, but mighty, the Woodland Farmers Market is a must see. Open May through mid-October, this is a one-stop shop for local Sacramento Valley produce, but it’s more than that. Located on a palm tree lined street across from the public library, this quaint market oozes with personality and community. Here are three reasons to get there now.
Small and Special
Celebrating 25 years, this market has perfected the art of what works. Starting with its scope.
“It’s a perfect size. I don’t have five people selling the same thing. We have
every thing you need, we have the greens, the fruits, the vegetables, we have honey, local arts and crafts, and everything is local, coming from one hour away at most” explained Sonia Mora, Market Manager Co-Founder of the Woodland Farmers Market.
Face to Face with Farmers
There are less crowds and more time to connect with famers and growers.
“I love having time to talk customers and I really get a feel for what they like and need” said Patricia Calvert, owner of Ciarlo Fruit and Nut, which specializes in olive oil and farm fresh jams from the English Hills area, situated between Winters and Vacaville.
You get it all here. From Picnic Table Farm, which is new to the growing community, to Eckhoff Ranch, which has been at the market since the beginning, and along with Mora, co-founded of the market. Ed Eckhoff is affectionately known as “the tomato man” for his expertise, knowledge and great tasting tomatoes!
Community Connected
Nestled next to the library, the Woodland Farmers Market has teamed up with them.
“We have a great partnership with the library. Every Saturday morning at 10:30 am they do story time for the kids, a live interactive story time. Every other Saturday we do a special kids farmers market, setting up a mini market under trees where for children get to shop and pick out what they want” detailed Mora.
Here kids learn about food and finances in one swoop while parents can shop the rest of the market.
If you can’t make the Saturday market, try the Tuesday market, 11 am-2 pm, located at Woodland Memorial Hospital and supported by Dignity Health.