Vista Farmers Market supports farmer certification by the County Agriculture Department. This is an essential component of ensuring that farmers cultivate what they sell. It contains 53 farmers selling what they raise, including local, certified, and organic farms that sell in-season fruit.
There are also 34 food makers selling fresh bread and other baked goods, sauces, salsas and dips, pickles, and hot food vendors serving breakfast and lunch. In addition, 18 craftsmen sell soap, ceramics, textiles, headgear, jewelry, and other items. There are around 600 free parking places at the market. Browse around this site
Here are some pointers to help you make the most of your time at the market:
- Keep in mind that only assistance animals are permitted at any of the state’s farmers’ markets (by state regulations, enforced by the county).
- Sorry, no pets! There aren’t many lines to stand in, for the most part.
- Simply approach the table nicely, ask your inquiry, present your thing for sale, or taste a sample.
- EARLIER in the day, the market is less crowded (and the fruit is fresher). Arrive around 8 or 9 a.m. to find shorter lines and more options.
- Inquire with the maker or farmer if you want to know where, how, or when the produce was grown or the item was made.
- Farmers at the market represent a diverse spectrum of farms – organic, soon to be organic, no spray, and so on.
- If you buy in bulk, you may ask for a discount; some will give it to you, while others will refuse.
- The majority of farmers and sellers accept cash only. It is straightforward, easy, and does not need power, paperwork, or time. Some vendors, however, do accept credit cards. There are two ATMs nearby, one a block north at the Credit Union (near Islands restaurant) and one a block south at the bank (on the same side of Melrose as the market).
- Educate yourself! Many farmers and consumers offer essential advice on cooking or preparing an item, when something is in (or out) season, and other topics.
- EBT (food stamps), WIC, and Senior coupons are accepted at the market. EBT cards may be obtained at the market information booth. WIC and Senior Farmers Markets Coupons are available at WIC offices and Senior Centers.
- WIC and Senior discounts are typically available from May through October.
- Farmer’s Market Dollars may be used to purchase gift vouchers at the market. These wooden tokens cost a dollar apiece and may be purchased with cash or cheque (up to $20) at the information booth (across from the coffee truck).
- Farmers Market Dollars have no expiration date and may be used at any market farmer, manufacturer, or market marketer. Please provide your own containers, such as bags, jars, cartons, boxes, and bottles. It can save farmers and vendors money, help the environment, and, in some cases, save you money as well.
- The lightly worn products you obtain from the farmers can be recycled (egg cartons, strawberry baskets, pots for plants, etc.) Simply return them to the farmer who gave them to you or someone else who will use them.
The Vista Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and is situated at the Vista County Courthouse, 345 South Melrose Drive, City of Vista, California, USA. Visit the website for more details or call (760) 945-7425. This article