From produce to prepared food, Stanislaus County’s outdoor market season opens
With the arrival of spring comes the opening of Stanislaus County’s market season.
Events have vendors with fresh, seasonal produce, incredible food offerings for every palette and, frequently, live music to set the mood for a delightful morning. There even are nighttime events.
Check our list of upcoming markets in our region and let us know which one is your favorite.
In Modesto
Modesto Certified Farmers Market: Since 1979, the Modesto Certified Farmers Market has been a community favorite. Over 50 vendors, including MatKat Sourdough, Bloomingcamp Ranch, Chinchiolo Farms and Sciabica’s Olive Oil, sell their products on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. On April 2, the Thursday market returns for spring. The market is on 16th Street between H and I, alongside the Stanislaus County Library.
Kaiser Modesto Farmers Market: Though small, this market has the essentials. There is usually just one produce vendor of each type — one with vegetables, one with fruit — and few more selling handmade goods and prepared food. The market is every Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. outside Kaiser Permanente Modesto Medical Center, 4601 Dale Road.
El Rematito: Starting April 10, the Artesanal Night Market returns to the flea market on Crows Landing Road. It will have artisanal items, food, drinks and live music. The market will be the second and fourth Fridays of each month from 6 to 11 p.m. and run through November. El Rematito is at 3113 Crows Landing Road.
Domo First Fridays: Downtown Modesto transforms into a multi-block street fair the first Friday of each month, starting April 3. This night market features shopping stalls, food and drink booths and pockets of music, salsa dancing, breakdancing and even roller skating. The event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. and the season runs through October.
Modesto Art Walk: Though there are few to no outdoor vendors, businesses near J and 10th streets open their doors to feature local art and offer special foods and prices the third Thursday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. Guests are invited to stroll through galleries and shops while enjoying local arts and crafts and live music. The Modesto Art Walk runs from February to October.
In Escalon
Escalon Farmers Market: Starting April 15 and running through August, the Escalon Farmers Market is the third Wednesday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. The market will be at the newly renovated Main Street Park, 1771 Main St.
In Turlock
Turlock Certified Farmers Market: Around 50 vendors line downtown streets at the Turlock Certified Farmers Market. The weekly event takes place Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Main Street between Palm and Center Streets. This market was started in 2010 and features fresh produce vendors, local artisans and food stalls.
The Market: Featuring local food vendors, music and more, this market takes place near the farmers market, but the vibe is definitely more lively. The Market is dog-friendly and takes place on Saturdays from 9 to 1 p.m., then opening at 8 a.m. starting in May. The market is on West Main Street between First and Market streets.
In Riverbank
Riverbank Night Market: Offering “Community, culture and local vendors,” the Riverbank Night Market opened March 7 and takes place every other Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. Each market has a theme, and on March 21, first responders will be honored with special discounts and giveaways. The market is at Riverbank Community Plaza, 6802 Third St.
In Oakdale
Oakdale Morning Market: Returning in May, the Oakdale Morning Market is every Saturday from 8 to 11 a.m. on North Third Avenue. Focusing on local produce and businesses, there will also be live music and artisan vendors. Vendor applications are being accepted.
In Patterson
Patterson Farmers Market: Opening April 29, it will be held every Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. Vendor applications are being accepted. The event takes place downtown at the Veterans Memorial Park, 36 Salado St.
Do you know of a weekly or monthly local market that does not appear on our list or want to share which one is your favorite to attend? Let me know at mfigueroa@modbee.com.
