The Top Farmers Markets in Sacramento To Visit Now

Nestled amidst 1.5 million acres of lush farmland, Sacramento enjoys a special reputation, earning its title as the farm-to-fork capital. The access to fresh produce elevates local farmers and suppliers to celebrity status within the area. The city's culinary scene is peppered with local flavors, but for the quintessential experience of this agricultural wealth, the farmers markets in Sacramento are simply unmatched.

These vibrant markets, buzzing with life in the open air, are a feast for the senses. Here, you'll find enthusiasts with bags full of the latest veggie discovery mingling with both local and world-famous chefs. These culinary experts often start their day with a leisurely latte while scouting for unique ingredients offered by the standout food stalls. If you're looking for culinary inspiration or simply want to immerse yourself in the local food culture, these markets are the place to visit.

Certified Farmers Markets in Sacramento

Sacramento Central Farmers Market

Location: Downtown Sacramento 8th & W Sts

Fondly referred to as the Sunday Farmers Market in Sacramento, or simply the Market Under the Freeway, this bustling, all-season market springs to life every Sunday morning from 8 a.m. until just before noon. It's a haven for vendors who offer a vast array of items. Yes, you've read that right! At this Sacramento hot spot, you can find an incredible selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and plants. Arriving early gives you a unique chance to mingle with well-known figures from the local food scene, often spotted gathering the best seasonal produce for their culinary creations. 

Capitol Mall Farmers Market 

Location: Capitol Mall, 6th & Capitol, Sacramento

Should there be a prize for the most picturesque farmers market setting, Capitol Mall would certainly claim the top spot. Every Wednesday, from May to September, between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., this outdoor marvel becomes a hub of activity.

Oak Park Farmers Market Sacramento

Location: 3500 5th Avenue, Sacramento

Visitors consistently praise the cozy, neighborhood ambiance of the Oak Park Farmers Market in Sacramento. Operating from May through November, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., this market welcomes you to join its community of regulars. Here, you'll find a familiar mix of vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers alongside a selection of prepared foods.

However, Oak Park stands out for its engaging lineup of activities that extend beyond shopping. With live music, children's activities nearly every week, and unique workshops ranging from cooking demonstrations to urban beekeeping and chicken care, there's plenty to fill your day. These enriching experiences are often led by community members, thanks to the market's Skill Swap program, enhancing the sense of local involvement and learning.

Cesar Chavez Plaza Farmers Market

Location: 910 Interstate Street, Sacramento

Discover a culinary haven in the heart of Downtown Sacramento with the Cesar Chavez Plaza Farmers Market, boosting your lunchtime choices significantly throughout the summer season. Operating every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., this market becomes a bustling food paradise. Watch as an array of food trucks park to serve delicious eats —a must-experience for any food lover.

North Natomas Farmers Market

Location: 2501 New Market Drive, Sacramento

Nestled in North Natomas Regional Park, this charming local market is a nice spot to replenish your pantry for the week ahead. The North Natomas Farmers Market, though compact in size, showcases an impressive variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and dairy items. Welcoming patrons from June to September, this Sacramento market is the go-to place every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. until noon for those looking to embrace the community's local produce.

Davis Farmers Market

Location: 301 C Street, Davis

Since opening its doors in 1976, this Saturday farmers market, just a 20-minute drive from Sacramento, has become a magnet for culinary enthusiasts. Explore an array of apple and pear types from Patrick’s Garden in the adjacent Apple Hill, along with succulent pomegranates and delicious syrups from Good Humus, a venture started by UC Davis alumni Jeff and Annie Main, who were also among the founders of the Davis market. On a sunny day, treat yourself to a homemade mango sticky rice popsicle and enjoy a selection of food trucks scattered throughout the market, offering a variety of tasty options.

Sunday Farmers Markets Sacramento

Sacramento offers a unique fusion of global flavors, perfectly blending traditional and contemporary culinary worlds. As the state capital, it boasts an impressive array of farmers markets, all endorsed by the Certified Farmers Markets of Sacramento County. These markets invite culinary enthusiasts and adventurers alike to embark on a flavorful journey.

Among these, the Midtown Farmers Market, located at the crossroads of West and 8th streets on Sundays, stands out as the state's most expansive, taking advantage of the cool shade from a freeway overpass. Here, vendors abound, presenting a rich harvest for the community's enjoyment.

This market is a culinary mosaic, offering everything from exotic to familiar tastes. Imagine finding fresh Thai lemongrass, black Spanish radishes, and Tokyo turnips alongside ripe tomatoes, succulent berries, and an assortment of takeaway treats such as pastries, waffles, and seafood.

Not far from Midtown, just three blocks away, lies the Asian Farmers Market on 431 Broadway, with a distinct mission. Catering to the city's Asian populace, this market specializes in providing essential ingredients for traditional dishes. It's a treasure trove of culinary essentials for stir-fries, curries, and more, featuring napa cabbage, bok choy, daikon, murungai, soambu, long beans, among others. Visitors are encouraged to come prepared with small bills to explore the diverse stalls, guaranteeing a departure with both full bags and satisfied appetites.