The Turlock Certified Farmers Market has become a staple in downtown Turlock, offering hundreds of shoppers farm-fresh produce, some tasty treats, and a delicious lunch on summer Friday mornings.
This week, the Turlock Farmers Certified Market will take that merriment into the night, with the year's second evening-time market. The evening market will start at 6 p.m., on Broadway near the intersection with Main Street, with a live performance from local band The Red Pony. The morning market will continue as normal, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday night markets are also scheduled for Sept. 6 and Oct. 25.
The City of Manteca canceled its weekly Tuesday Farmer's Market due to excessive heat this week, but the Turlock Certified Farmers Market will take place as normal on Friday. Friday night’s market was, however, moved to a later 6 p.m. start time due to extreme temperatures.
“We are not canceling,” Turlock Market Manager Derek Griffin said.
The Turlock Certified Farmers Market was created out of a desire to bring local crops directly to local consumers. This year it has expanded to become a fun family experience and an opportunity for parents to teach their children about sustainable, healthy eating habits and lifestyles – albeit with some minor indulgences into sugar-filled tasty goodness like cookies.
“It’s turned into a great place for families to come and have lunch and do some shopping. This part of downtown has really taken off and lots of people are coming here now,” Griffin said.
Family fun-centered vendors include cool snow cones, a balloon twister, and a face painter.
A few of the unique vendors at the market include the Saucy Girls, who serve up tasty sliders, Hummus Heaven, and the recent addition of a cannoli vendor – not to mention the more than three-dozen vendors selling goods like toffee, honey, nuts, and jam.
In addition the market offers live music weekly, with performances ranging from violinist and flutist to live bands, wedding DJs or solo guitarists.
