Orinda, California – It’s raining now, but at least it’s not freezing!
That means the seasons are changing here in the Bay Area, and we’re starting to come out of the dreary, chilly, dark winter.
That also means it’s the perfect time to head back to the Orinda farmers market if you haven’t been there in a while.
The farmers market is a small but mighty California Certified Farmers Market. It takes place every Saturday by the Orinda Community Park.
A small section of road is closed down, and you can shop multiple vendors and sometimes even listen to live music.
I like the farmers market because it’s right here in the community, and also because it’s very accessible. It’s just a single road, and you can easily walk in with your kids.
The San Ramon Farmers Market is a lot of fun too, but it’s a whole scene. There are sometimes more than 50 vendors there, and it fills up an entire parking lot.
Orinda feels more low-key and super local. It’s just a dozen food stands most times–plus vendors and food trucks–so it’s not an overwhelming amount. The quality of the vendors is top-notch.
I love going to Medina Berry Farm to get their delicious strawberries and raspberries.
Often there’s a dumpling place. On a visit this last weekend, I got a tasty Nutella, banana and strawberry crêpe at La Crêpe à Moi.
An açaà food truck is another frequent visitor, and there are often stands from local community groups, remodeling contractors, and more.
Because this is a California Certified Farmers Market, it’s held to extremely high standards. All of the produce needs to be actually grown by the people who are selling it, here in California.
There are all kinds of other requirements about cleanliness and standards as well. So you know the stuff you’re getting is going to be great, and that you’re actually supporting local farmers and artisans.
As we get further into the spring and summer, there will be even more vendors coming each week. This is a nice time of the season, though, because it’s still fairly low-key and the weather is beautiful.
Grab some produce or a snack, then head up the little staircase to Orinda Community Park. You can grab a picnic table or spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic while your kids play on the playground or ride their bikes in a big loop.
Of course, you can also bring back some items for dinner. There are often meat and fish vendors at the market too.
Want other fun local finds like this? Make sure to join my free 925 News newsletter — I’m always reviewing great stuff to do in the area.
