Greater Palm Springs is famous for golf, shopping, hiking and hundreds of dining opportunities, but most visitors are surprised—and delighted—to learn that Greater Palm Springs is an important farming region of Southern California. No wonder! The destination has a 300-day growing season, with annual agriculture contributing more than $600 million to the economy from table grapes, citrus, fruits, peppers, avocados, mangos, carrots, assorted greens and greenhouses all scattered across this bountiful oasis. Several farms grow organic crops and about 95% of U.S. dates are grown right here. Here's your list of where you can find a local market in Greater Palm Springs.
The six Certified Farmers Markets in Greater Palm Springs, most open fall through spring, operate throughout these cities – Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage and Indio. Many of the local farmers and vendors attend each one of these markets. Farmers from beyond Greater Palm Springs also bring their homemade cheeses, flowers, olive and avocado oils, honey, flowers, organic coffee and home-baked breads and pastries. Cooking demonstrations and live music enhance the experience. Savvy local chefs prefer to wander these open-air certified farmers markets that offer “just picked” produce and hand-made products.
June - September, Saturdays from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. | 401 S. Pavillion Way (Indoor)
The Certified Farmers Market in Palm Springs runs year-round, with stalls full of fresh vegetables and fruit, herbs, lavender, cheese, bread, honey, nuts, cage-free eggs, olives and olive oil, cut flowers, orchids, and plants. Dogs aren't allowed in the market aisles, but pet owners shouldn't skip the booth for Ben Davis' Natural Monarch Raw Pet Food. Ben is a professional dog nutritionist, behaviorist, and groomer.
Sundays 8 a.m. to 1.p.m. | 66070 Pierson Blvd.
Open October through May
Fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, pantry essentials, prepared foods, and artisan goods are all on offer at the Desert Hot Springs Certified Farmers Market. Every farmer is county-certified, meaning shoppers buy directly from the growers themselves, with at least half of vendors offering all-organic products. Purchases support local farms and local families while providing access to the freshest flavors the valley has to offer.
Sundays from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. | 78100 Main Street, La Quinta
Open October through May
The Old Town La Quinta market is loaded with fresh produce, Deeb Farms' fresh squeezed Valencia orange juice, cheese, organic nuts, fuyu persimmons, fresh breads from L’Artisan Bakery, organic apples from Ha’s Apple Farm in Tehachapi and beer from La Quinta Brewing Co. Save room for Sylvia Garza’s fresh homemade tamales from her Qué Mami Organics line, but get there early: these tamales often sell out.
Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. | 44175 Washington St., Indian Wells
Open October through May
In the heart of Indian Wells, you can find fresh, organic and delicious options for fruit and vegetables–plan ahead and get everything you'll need for that dinner you may be hosting or simple staples for your upcoming week! They also have local vendors offering their homemade recipes, from baked goods to salads and breakfast plates. You can find local honey, homemade bread and little gifts to pick up to take a piece of Greater Palm Springs home with you, like a handmade mug or unique jewelry.
Fridays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. | 71560 San Jacinto Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Open October through May
If you are looking to end the week and go into the weekend on a fresh note, head over to the Rancho Mirage farmers market. Find endless options of fresh fruit, vegetables, pressed juices, all-organic eggs and so much more. Enjoy homemade baked goods that you can't find anywhere else. Shop and feel good doing so knowing that you are supporting local farmers and vendors.
Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. | 45235 Towne Street, Indio Ca 92201
Open October through May
The Indio farmers market occurs on Sunday mornings and is the perfect place for you to stop. Not only do you get to find fresh fruits and vegetables, beautiful flowers, delectable cheese and meats, but you also get to mingle and experience the atmosphere of Indio. It is located in Downtown Indio in the parking lot of unique shops near City Hall, as well. Bring your dog, grab a cup of coffee or tea and walk through this market to find amazing finds, food and people.
Photos courtesy of Certified Farmers Market; www.certifiedfarmersmarket.org.
Keep exploring Greater Palm Springs sustainably and enjoy delicious food at these farm-to-table restaurants in this culinary oasis.