E arly mornings call for a trip to the local farmers market, where visitors can meander through vibrant stands while catching a whiff of sweet and savory aromas in the air. A colorful array of fresh produce is displayed with care, and smiles are all around.
Southern California farmers markets have grown in popularity, drawing hundreds of visitors looking to bring home fresh food for their families. Here are three Orange County farmers markets worth waking up early for:
IRVINE FARMERS MARKET
The Irvine Farmers Market is held from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays at Mariners Church, 5001 Newport Coast Drive.
Parking can be a challenge on a busy farmers market day. To avoid the crowds, arrive before 11 a.m. and head to the youth parking lot. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring reusable bags and consider using a wagon.
From Spam musubi and Belgian-style fries served in newspaper-print cones to Korean barbecue, Spanish tortillas and crepes, there is no shortage of tempting options. Dozens of fresh-produce vendors sell Asian greens, earthy mushrooms and delicious seasonal fruits. These treats can be enjoyed while listening to live music.
ORANGE HOME GROWN FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Another beloved farmers market is the Orange Home Grown Farmers and Artisans Market, held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays at 303 W. Palm Ave. in Orange.
Free parking is available in the Old Towne Lemon Street parking structure, located a block from the market at the corner of Maple Avenue and Lemon Street.
Proof Bagels, OC Bread Company, KoKomoo, a handcrafted coconut milk vendor, and Terra Nova Eco Club, which sells sustainable self-care products, are among the local favorites. Make a pit stop for your pup or cat at the Fido to Go food truck, which serves handmade specialty allergen-free cookies, frozen yogurt, dehydrated treats and freeze-dried meat for a happy belly.
LAGUNA BEACH FARMERS MARKET
Laguna Beach’s small but mighty farmers market is a hot commodity. It is held from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays at 521 Forest Ave. Street parking is available at the metered rate.
The farmers market has been around for more than 30 years, offering wildcaught fish, fresh acai bowls, mango honey, hummus, crepes, farm eggs and vibrant produce.
Swing by the farmers market for breakfast before heading to the beach to walk off the calories.
A growing feature of markets across the nation is the acceptance of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) benefits, providing access to a wide variety of fresh, healthy foods.
Over the years, farmers markets have evolved into trusted community centerpieces where families can bond while supporting local farmers and the backbone of agricultural viability.
Photo by Visit Laguna Beach