Vendor Focus is a new feature celebrating the farmers, vendors, and artisans who bring Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets to life. In each profile, we spotlight one of the many dedicated vendors from our four markets—sharing their story, their growing or crafting practices, and the products they proudly offer each week. Our markets are known...Read More
With the holiday season (and plenty of cooking!) just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get your kitchen tools in shape. One of the easiest ways to make your holiday cooking smoother—and safer—is to start with sharp knives. Here’s why a quick tune-up makes all the difference: Work Smarter, Not Harder: A...Read More
Spend the day with your guests—not in the kitchen. Chef Jody Lombardo at Bay Living Culinary is offering classic Thanksgiving side dishes and chef kits you can pre-order and pick up at the Aptos Farmers Market or the Monterey Farmers Market. You handle the turkey; they’ll handle the rest! Order Deadline: All orders must be...Read More
As we approach the holiday season, we’re reminded how fortunate we are to live in a community that truly cares for one another. For nearly fifty years, the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets have thrived thanks to the steadfast support of our Santa Cruz County and Monterey County neighbors. Together, we’ve grown not just a...Read More
We’re honored to share that the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets (MBCFM) received several community awards in 2025 — a reflection of the farmers, food artisans, and loyal customers who make our markets such vibrant gathering places. 2025 Awards and Honors Aptos Chamber of Commerce — Business of the Year Good Times Santa Cruz —...Read More
For your Thanksgiving holiday shopping convenience, the Monterey Farmers Market at Del Monte Shopping Center will be open on Wednesday, November 26, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. — a perfect opportunity to pick up the freshest local produce, flowers, baked goods, and specialty foods for your holiday table. Please note: the market will be...Read More
The Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets is honored to be recognized as Business of the Year by the Aptos Chamber of Commerce. “We are so proud to receive this recognition,” said longtime market director Catherine Barr. “As we look ahead to celebrating the 50th anniversary of our farmers markets next year, we are deeply grateful...Read More
As the crisp air of fall settles in and the holidays approach, our farmers markets are overflowing with nature’s finest harvest! From juicy apples, pears, persimmons, and pomegranates to hearty Brussels sprouts, squash, pumpkins, eggplants, dates, nuts, and dried fruit—there’s no better time to stock up on these seasonal gems. Seasonal Market Closures The Carmel...Read More
With autumn in the air and cooler days ahead, it’s the perfect season to cozy up with a new recipe or plan next year’s garden. As you tidy your shelves this fall, consider donating gently used cookbooks or gardening books. Your contribution helps create a vibrant collection that will inspire home cooks and green thumbs...Read More
We’re excited to introduce a fresh lineup of vendors bringing exceptional flavors and craftsmanship to our farmers markets. From wild-harvested coffee in the forests of Fiji to hand-massaged dried persimmons grown right here in Santa Cruz County, these producers are passionate about their ingredients, their craft, and their connection to the land. Fiji Wild Coffee...Read More
