Living in the Central Valley has its benefits when it comes to Fresno’s groceries. Options include Trader Joes, Whole Foods, and many farmers markets.

The benefits of going to a farmers market are endless. It is cheaper to buy from vendors; every purchase goes to local farmers. The atmosphere of a farmers market is very inviting and enjoyable. Being outside and talking to friendly people that know about the food they are selling is very refreshing; compared to walking down the stale fluorescent lit grocery aisles with a shopping cart, waiting fifteen minutes in the express lane.

The food, flowers, and spices are fresh and ready for your choosing. It is a great place to go with friends and family too. So get out of the house, enjoy the sunshine, and go buy some local goodness.

Kaiser Permanente Farmers Market

This market is  in front of the hospital. There are just as many options and the venders are all in smiles asking you to look at their freshest produce. Great Harvest Bread Company also has a stand selling their signature bread and muffins to take home. This is a great market if you want to get the essentials and stock up your canvas shopping bag.

Wednesdays     

8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

7300 N. Fresno St.

The Vineyard Farmers Market

This was the prettiest of all the markets. When you walk inside all you see are tall arches of vines and flower bulbs ready for their début.  To the left is a homemade Honey stand, with the best tasting honey that melts in your mouth. Lined next to each other are stands of Flowers, fresh eggs, free-range meats, cheese, coffee beans, fruit, and even a knife-sharpening booth. This is a great place to spend your Saturday morning drinking coffee with a friend.  If you do not bring one, odds are you will make two there.  

Wednesdays 3 to 6 p.m. and          Saturdays 7 a.m. to noon

Shaw and Blackstone

Farmers Market at River Park

This is a fun market to go to, especially if you are going on an empty stomach. From the Kettle Corn to the homemade tamales, you will be leaving with an extra inch added to your waistline no matter what. There are local artists that sell their work, venders ready to sell you your favorite fruits and vegetables, and plenty of random stands you would not expect. This is more of an exciting and fast paced market.

Tuesdays 5 to 9 p.m.

Blackstone and Nees