On Sunday, Sept. 8, the City of Arcadia debuted its new Farmers’ Market in the parking lot of the Arcadia Public Library between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. The market will set up at the same time every week.

The market provides the usual farmers’ market products and services, including fresh produce, artisanal breads, cheeses, meats, oils, flowers, prepackaged and prepared foods, as well as other vendors selling crafts. In addition, a Market Kids Club plans activities for younger children, such as music, art projects, and lessons about farming and healthy foods.

This certified farmers’ market is due in large part to a partnership with Raw Inspiration, a company that has assisted in planning related events all throughout the San Gabriel Valley. The company has organized 22 farmers’ markets in locations throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County. Its goal is to educate everyone on the significance of a good diet and the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Nearly 2 million people visit their markets annually. 

The other local Raw Inspiration farmers’ market is the Monrovia Fair and Farmers’ Market, which opens every Friday night from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. This weekly event has been going on for years, and the same company has just recently opened a similar market in Arcadia. 

Of the Arcadia event, Raw Inspiration’s Director of Coordination and Development, Melissa Farwell, said, “Arcadia is a very special community and we are honored to bring this Farmers’ Market here for residents to enjoy.”

The Arcadia Farmers’ Market opened last Sunday as a part of the three new Raw Inspiration farmers’ markets established this year, which include one at Sherman Oaks Hospital and one at Encino Hospital. 

Arcadia mayor April Verlato said, “Farmers’ markets are an integral part of the urban/farm linkage and have continued to rise in popularity, mostly due to the growing consumer interest in obtaining fresh products directly from the farm. The Arcadia Farmers’ Market will allow residents to have access to locally grown, farm fresh produce.”

This particular farmers’ market will continue to happen every Sunday in the Arcadia Public Library parking lot. This weekly event will conclude sometime in the summer of 2020.

Photo courtesy of FEE.ORG