The Davis Farmers Market, a beloved institution in the heart of California’s agricultural landscape, continues to thrive as a hub for local farmers, artisans and community members. Established in 1976, the market has grown from a small gathering of local producers to a vibrant marketplace that showcases the best of Yolo County’s bounty.

Every Wednesday and Saturday, the market transforms Central Park into a bustling haven for fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and community connection. With over 60 vendors, visitors can find a diverse array of organic fruits and vegetables, gourmet foods and artisanal products, all while supporting local farmers and businesses.

Lauren Mcnees is a farmer from Winters and has sold goods from the Rainwater Farm booth at the Davis Farmers Market for over a decade.

“This was a farmers market we had been visiting as customers, so we already felt we had a close connection to this farmers market,” she explained. “It’s a really good farmers market — it’s got lots of great vendors and great community attendance.”

In addition to its commitment to local produce, the Davis Farmers Market offers various programs designed to promote healthy eating and environmental stewardship.The market hosts weekly cooking demonstrations, featuring local chefs who share recipes and tips for preparing seasonal ingredients. Educational outreach initiatives engage local schools, encouraging children to learn about nutrition and farming.

The market also supports food access through programs like CalFresh — which allows low-income families to use their benefits at the market, ensuring that fresh, healthy food is available to all community members.

“The quality has always remained constant,” Mcnees said. “It has a long history of farmers and customers who are dedicated to it. It’s well managed, it has a good mix of all different kinds of products you would find at a farmers market, so customers can come here and basically do all of their shopping.”

With its unique blend of fresh produce, community spirit and educational outreach, the Davis Farmers Market remains a cornerstone of the Davis community, fostering connections and celebrating the local agricultural heritage.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the market offers a warm welcome and a taste of what makes Davis truly special.