John H.
Yelp
If it isn't the MOAFMs (that's, Mother Of All Farmers' Markets), the Sunday Farmers' Market under the freeway at 8th & W streets has got to at least claim the title of Your Great-Aunt of All Farmers' Markets. Open 8 am - noon, every Sunday of the year, rain, shine, typhoon or paper cut, come on down and bring some of your favorite TJ's shopping bags to stuff full of good stuff grown up and down our beautifully bounteous Central Valley.
Schlepping down the aisles, you'll find the freshest and best of what's in season. In winter, it might be cara-cara oranges, brussel sprouts on the stalk, or an unusual squash. Spring brings cherries, later the blueberries and strawberries, and moving into summer you'll have your pick of watermelons, corn, blackberry varieties like marionberry, olallieberry, tayberry and boysenberry. Peaches, nectarines, heirloom tomatoes by the truckload.
Crayfish guy next to the fishmonger (check, most are frozen asian-farmed). Next to Little Fish Co. with the freshest halibut, salmon, cod, hot smoked too. Oysters (license doesn't allow tasting, bummer), locally produced pork, beef, chicken, it goes on and on.
Pro tips:
1. Go early! Especially if you want the best selection. by 9 it's usually packed.
2. No dogs. It's way too crowded for the pooches.
3. Shop around prior to purchase - prices can vary by 50%.
4. Note that not all vendors are "Certified Organic." It's worth asking, if you don't see the emblem displayed, as some farmers just can't afford the extra expense of certification, but still produce organically.
5. Try something you've never tried before! you'd be amazed at what you'll discover.
6. Kids love the activity! Tots in strollers can be a challenge however.