This story is part of our September 2026 issue. To read the print version, click here.


As Comstock’s reports in this special
agriculture-themed issue, it’s getting harder to run a family
farm in the Sacramento region. However, a hardscrabble bunch of
both young and generations-old farms are still working to keep
the region fed.

One of the best ways to find and support them is to visit a local
farmers market, where farms can sell fruit, vegetables, flowers,
meat, eggs and other products directly to consumers instead of
working through the often convoluted supply chain that ends in
chain supermarkets. And thanks to the region’s warm Mediterranean
climate, many of these markets are open and selling seasonal
produce year-round. 

Here’s a roundup of some of notable markets in and around
Sacramento.

Midtown Farmers Market

The Midtown Farmers Market was recently voted No. 1 in America.
(Photo courtesy of Midtown Association)

Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; opens at 9 a.m.
November–February

1050 20th St., Sacramento

Voted the No. 1 farmers market in California, this rain-or-shine
event offers so much more than produce. Unfurling over six
dedicated blocks with more than 200 vendors, it’s perhaps the
only place where you can enjoy an Arab-Mexican fusion sourdough
wrap and Vietnamese iced coffee while hunting for vintage
clothing. Live music and lively crowds create festival vibes
every Saturday.

Central Sacramento Sunday Certified Farmers Market

The Central Sacramento Sunday Certified Farmers Market in 2017.
(Shutterstock photo)

Sundays, 8 a.m.–noon

State parking lot beneath Highway 50

Sixth and W streets, Sacramento

You might know it as the farmers market under the freeway, and
it’s a bit of a hidden gem. The go-to market for Sacramentans
looking to stock their fridge with some serious deals on local
produce, meat, bread and more, this Sunday market has been going
strong since 1980.

Capitol Mall Farmers Market

The Capitol Mall Farmers Market in May 2025. (Shutterstock photo)

Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

April 29–Oct. 28

600 Capitol Mall, Sacramento

Located in the heart of downtown Sacramento, this market is an
oasis for professionals in search of a restorative lunch al
fresco and some shopping for the second half of the workweek.

Arden-Arcade Certified Farmers Market

Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon

Country Club Plaza

2405 Butano Drive, Sacramento

Sometimes referred to as the Country Club Plaza Farmers Market,
it’s one of the longest-running certified farmers markets in
California, offering affordable fruits, veggies and more.

Florin Certified Farmers Market

Thursdays, 8 a.m.–noon

Florin Light Rail Station

3001 Florin Road, Sacramento

Ideal for light rail riders, this market is a contender for the
longest-running in California, offering affordable groceries
right at the station.

Meadowview Certified Farmers Market

Sundays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

May–October

Meadowview Light Rail Station

3501 Meadowview Road, Sacramento

Another light rail stop, Meadowview Market hosts artisan booths
selling salsas, sweets, beverages, soaps and more in addition to
fresh produce. It also offers perks such as free bike repairs
every first Sunday of the month, provided by Sacramento Area
Bicycle Advocates, and a Kids Bucks program, in which children 12
and under get a $5 voucher for farm products every week.

Carmichael Farmers Market

Sundays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Carmichael Park

5750 Grant Ave., Carmichael

This year-round market pairs produce from small family farms with
foods such as hummus, sauerkraut and fresh-baked scones. Food
trucks and a craft corner selling jewelry, baskets and other
handmade finds make it easy to turn an errand into a Sunday
outing.

Fair Oaks Farmers Market

Tuesdays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Fair Oaks Park

11549 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks

For those whose weekends get away from them, this year-round
Tuesday market offers a second chance to fill the fridge. Small
regional farms bring seasonal fruits and vegetables, while honey,
eggs, meat and olive oil round out the shopping list.

Orangevale Farmers Market

Thursdays, 4–8 p.m.

May–October

Community Center Park

6826 Hazel Ave., Orangevale

This market hosts “Band and Brews” every Thursday night of the
season, where the Orangevale Chamber of Commerce pours beer and
wine.

Historic Folsom Certified Farmers Market

Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Historic Folsom Plaza and Light Rail Station

915 Sutter Street

Grocery shopping comes with a side of sightseeing at this
Saturday gathering in Historic Folsom Plaza. Fresh produce,
artisan goods and live music provide plenty of reasons to linger
before exploring the historic district’s boutiques and coffee
shops.

Rancho Cordova Certified Farmers’ Market

Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon

Sunrise Light Rail Station

11164 Folsom Blvd., Rancho Cordova

Another “hidden gem,” according to organizers, the only certified
farmers market in Rancho Cordova is easily accessible by light
rail, offering locally produced groceries every Saturday of the
year.

ONE Natomas Farmers Market

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

May 30–Sept. 26

2501 New Market Drive, Sacramento

This seasonal Saturday gathering is owned and operated by
Sacramento Councilwoman Lisa Kaplan and her staff. In addition to
food, produce and craft vendors, it features a “literacy corner”
with book reading, face painting and other activities for
children. 

Elk Grove Certified Farmers Market

Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon

Laguna Gateway Shopping Center

8245 Laguna Blvd., Elk Grove

The only certified farmers market in Elk Grove, this year-round
market is sometimes known as the Laguna Farmers Market.
Produce-focused and affordable, it’s the go-to spot for local
fruits, veggies, nuts and even freshly baked bread.

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