The Orange Farmers Market: Saturdays in the Sun

Image Provided by Allison Major

Shopping for groceries is a necessary evil. Eating well is an important part of staying healthy, and the grocery store offers fresh and affordable food. But the harsh fluorescent lights, narrow aisles, and lengthy checkout lines can be off-putting and create a lot of unnecessary stress for those who shop there. 

The visitors at the Orange Home Grown Farmers & Artisans Market have found another less taxing option. This market features a wide variety of booths focused on both food and artisanal creations. Vendors come from all around Orange County to share their produce and products, bringing fresh and local food with a bright and sociable atmosphere. Shoppers traverse the market with friends, bring their dogs (who stay in a designated Park Your Paws booth), and fill the space with happy chatter and laughter. Not only does it allow people to get their shopping done, but it also serves as a wonderful outdoor break from the mundane nature of everyday life.

On a trip through this market, the variety of the booths is immediately eye-catching. There is everything from jewelry stores to tea shops, keychains to eggs, and vegan cheese to soap. With summer fast approaching, the brightly colored strawberries, apples, and plums look especially enticing and tempt shoppers to visit each booth. The vendors greet everyone with a smile and offer free samples, making it near-impossible to leave without either a full bag or a full belly. At other booths, there are beautiful rings, bouquets of flowers, or California-themed pins to satisfy the aesthetic lover in all of us. The combination of good food, good quality merchandise, and good vibes is something you don’t want to miss.

The market is held every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 303 W. Palm Avenue in Orange, California, and it also has the benefit of being located close to Chapman University. It is frequented by many students who appreciate a shopping opportunity within walking distance of their dorms or apartments. But it’s not just college students who visit–families, couples, and friends of all ages can be found browsing the various booths. It is a welcoming environment for all shoppers. Whether you need groceries or not, a trip to the Orange Home Grown Farmers & Artisans Market is sure to brighten your day.