In 2026, the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets proudly celebrates 50 years of serving the Central Coast—five decades of bringing farmers and communities together through food, stewardship, and shared purpose. What began in 1976 as a modest local market has grown into a cherished regional institution, deeply woven into the daily lives of farmers, families, chefs, and visitors alike.
Today, the family of Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets includes four vibrant markets in Aptos, Carmel, and Monterey, each reflecting the unique character of its community. Two of the four markets operate year-round, offering a weekly gathering place where fresh food, friendly conversation, and a strong sense of belonging are always in season.
With more than 90 dedicated vendors, our markets continue to set the standard for quality, authenticity, and community connection on the Central Coast.
A Legacy of Leadership and Vision
Much of this success is rooted in the steady leadership of Executive Director Catherine Barr, whose vision and dedication have shaped the markets for more than three decades.
Since 1993, Catherine has championed the preservation of small family farms, expanded market access throughout the region, and upheld the integrity of certified farmers markets at every level. Her commitment to farmers, vendors, and the broader agricultural community has helped the organization grow with intention—never losing sight of its founding values.
In recognition of her outstanding service, Catherine was awarded the Al Smith Friend of Agriculture Award by the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau in 2010. Under her leadership, the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets have flourished—remaining both deeply rooted and forward-looking.
Serving the Central Coast Since 1976
The Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets is the oldest and largest farmers market organization on California’s Central Coast. From Aptos to Carmel to Monterey, each market reflects its neighborhood while remaining united by a shared mission: supporting local agriculture, strengthening regional food systems, and fostering meaningful community connections.
This commitment has earned widespread recognition. In recent years, MBCFM has been honored as one of the best farmers market organizations in California and has ranked second in the United States by the American Farmland Trust—an extraordinary achievement made possible by farmers, vendors, staff, and loyal marketgoers alike.
Our Bountiful Region
The Monterey Bay region—stretching from northern Santa Cruz County to the tip of the Monterey Peninsula—is one of the most agriculturally rich and diverse areas in the country. Home to outstanding organic farms, vineyards, and food producers, the region is also a leader in sustainable and organic agriculture.
Santa Cruz County holds a special place in agricultural history as the birthplace of the modern organic movement, dating back to 1967 when Alan Chadwick and his students transformed a hillside at UC Santa Cruz into a thriving organic garden. Today, the region is home to more organic farming operations than any other area in California, a legacy that continues to thrive through our markets.
An Abundance of Exceptional Products
Visitors to the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets enjoy a remarkable selection of locally grown, California-produced foods and goods, many of which are certified organic or grown using sustainable methods.
Offerings include:
- Fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers
- Organic pasture-raised meats and poultry
- Farm-fresh chicken and duck eggs
- Fermented foods including sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha and miso
- Raw milk, yogurt, handcrafted cheeses, and cultured foods
- Local olive oil, raw honey, mushrooms, and small batch preserves
- Artisan breads, handmade pasta, and fresh-baked pastries
- Fresh seafood, gourmet sauces, fair-trade coffee
- Ready-to-heat entrées, soups, and simmer sauces
Two of our markets also feature professional knife and garden tool sharpening services, making them true one-stop community hubs.
What It Means to Be “Certified”
As a certified farmers market organization, MBCFM upholds the highest standards of transparency and trust. Participating farmers are certified by the state and sell only what they grow themselves, ensuring authenticity, fairness, and a direct connection between producer and consumer.
In keeping with our community-centered mission, the organization donates up to three booth spaces each month to local nonprofit organizations, helping raise awareness and support for important community programs.
A Community Effort, Recognized and Celebrated
In 2025, the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets received several notable community honors—recognition that reflects the dedication of our farmers, food artisans, staff, and the loyal customers who make these markets thrive.
2025 Awards and Honors
- Aptos Chamber of Commerce — Business of the Year
- Good Times Santa Cruz — Best of Santa Cruz County: Best Farmers Market (Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College)
- Monterey County Weekly — Best of Monterey County®: Best Agriculture Business Association
- The Carmel Pine Cone — Golden Pine Cones: Best Fruits and Vegetables — Farmers Markets
We are deeply grateful for this recognition and for the continued support of the communities we serve.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate 50 years of Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets, we honor the farmers who grow our food, the vendors who share their craft, the staff who make each market possible, and the neighbors who return week after week.
From humble beginnings to a thriving regional network, our markets remain grounded in the values that started it all: local agriculture, sustainability, and genuine human connection.
Here’s to the next fifty years—still growing, still gathering, and still going strong!
