The Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Market California is a vibrant, year-round gathering featuring fresh, regionally grown foods and organic produce, artisan goods, farm-fresh meats, and pasture-raised eggs and dairy. Serving the community through multiple locations across Santa Cruz County, this certified farmers’ market connects locals and visitors with the best in sustainable, local food. Whether you’re drawn by seasonal produce, live music, or market-match benefits, this farmers’ market offers an authentic, community-driven experience.
Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Market Details
Market Address
Cedar St &, Church St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Google Maps Link
Find the location on Google Maps.
Contact Information
Contact . +1 831-454-0566
Opening Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 1–5 pm |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Frequency
Each location is held weekly on its respective day as listed above.
Parking Details
At the Downtown market, nearby public lots include:
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Cedar/Cathcart Parking Lot (Lot No. 4)
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Pearl Alley Parking Lot (Lot No. 8)
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Elm Street (Lot No. 9)
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Front/Cathcart Parking (Lot No. 7)
All within walking distance of the market .
Tickets Information
No general admission tickets are required for entry. However, special pop-up breakfast events hosted occasionally (e.g. at Westside) may require tickets—typically priced between $80–$150 and purchased via the market website or event page. Discover Farmers Market – West Side and Felton Farmers Market.
Car Parking and Transportation
Car parking is available at the public lots listed above for the Downtown market . Other market locations (Felton, Scotts Valley, Live Oak) typically use adjacent parking lots or street parking. Public transit options vary; visitors should check local bus services or ride-share options for each site.
Vendor List and Vendor Costs
The market represents over 100 family farms, specialty food purveyors, and artisans. Vendors interested in joining must follow the New Vendors process—beginning with submitting an SCCFM Interest Form, providing required documentation, and following their multi-step review process. For detailed vendor registration or application, visit the New Vendors section on the SCCFM site.
Tips for First Timers
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Arrive early for the best selection, especially for seasonal produce and artisanal goods.
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Bring reusable bags, and consider reusable cutlery for seated meals.
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Use EBT/SNAP if eligible: Downtown market offers enhanced Market Match incentives (up to $20 matching this year).
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Enjoy live music and food samples—many markets offer on-site meals and vendor tastings.
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Check which day/location works best for you; downtown has the most variety, whereas others offer a cozier vibe.
Why Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Market Is a Must Visit
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Direct access to regionally grown, sustainable, and organic produce.
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Weekly gatherings that support local farmers and artisans.
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Robust community atmosphere: live music, cultural foods (naan, curry, pupusas, fermented foods) .
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Meaningful impact: supporting the local economy and food system health through EBT/SNAP and Market Match programs.
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Delicious experiences like pop-up chef breakfasts that elevate the market visit to culinary delight.
Instagram-Worthy Market Moments
Capture colorful stalls brimming with seasonal fruits and veggies, artisan bread loaves, flower bouquets, hand-crafted cheese displays, food trucks, live acoustic performances, and vibrant market signage. The mix of natural light, rustic vendor setups, and community energy makes for perfect visual content.
FAQs
1. Do I need an entry ticket?
No—general admission is free. Only special events like pop-up breakfasts require ticket purchase.
2. Can I use EBT/SNAP benefits?
Yes—markets offer Market Match. Downtown location matches up to $20, others offer up to $10 typically.
3. What if I want to become a vendor?
Submit an interest form via the New Vendors page. Meeting documentation requirements and membership criteria is necessary.
4. Which day/location is best for variety?
The Downtown Wednesday market offers the largest selection and cultural food variety; Westside and Live Oak are great for weekend morning trips.
5. Are pets allowed?
Pets aren’t typically mentioned on official info—check SCCFM contact for specifics per location.
Final Thoughts
The Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Market California is more than a shopping destination—it’s a community cornerstone where food, culture, and sustainability intertwine. Open weekly across multiple vibrant venues, it brings together farm-fresh flavors, local traditions, and wholesome experiences. Whether you’re shopping, sampling, or simply soaking in the scene, this market invites you to taste the soul of Santa Cruz. If you’re curious about the best places to shop for fresh produce, flowers, and local treats from the coast to the hills, check out our comprehensive directory of California Farmers Markets.
