by Chloe Pica
Over the years, communities in many different towns are joining in the hype of organizing their own farmer’s markets. Many people might wonder what the benefits are to having a farmer’s market in their town. Not only do farmer’s markets stimulate local communities by bringing people together, but they emphasis the importance and need of local growers and fresh, good quality food. At many farmer’s markets, a consumer might typically find cheaper and better quality products being sold. Also, consumers get to experience a face-to-face connection with the people who are growing their food. What a great deal!
If you are unfamiliar with any farmer’s markets in the area, the company Everyone’s Harvest provides several farmer’s markets year round in the Monterey County. Everyone’s Harvest is a company that was started as a Senior project by four women that attended CSUMB. Iris Peppard is the Exective Director of Everyone’s Harvest and is responsible for the immense success the market has seen. What makes this farmer’s market so unique is that it is founded mainly on certified organic foods. Most of the vendor’s there pride themselves on locally and organically grown products. If you are interested in seeing what Everyone’s Harvest is all about, they have three different locations that you can go to: Alisal in Salinas, Marina, and Pacific Grove. The markets run on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, each at a different location each day. Marina holds the market on Sundays from 10am-2pm at215 Reservation Rd. Pacific Grovehold the market on Mondays from 4pm-7pm at Central and Grand Ave. Alisal in Salinas’ market is held seasonally on Tuesdays from 9am-5pm at 631 East Alisal Street.
It’s quite an amazing experience to attend one of these markets. Not only does one get to meet the kindest, most honest and hard working individuals, but they also get a lasting experience. Every market ranges from fun activities such as Edible Education (a hands-on experience), a Kid’s Table, diverse foods, and music. If anyone is interested in learning more about Everyone’s Harvest, you can visit everyonesharvest.org. I had the privilege of doing 30 volunteer hours with Everyone’s Harvest, and it was an experience I will never forget. So check it out!