Things to do in Encinitas - Visit the Farmer's Market in Leucadia

Most of the communities around me in Carlsbad offer Farmer's Markets throughout the year, either during the week or on weekends. Unlike back East where they only happened in the summer and fall, here we can enjoy the local produce year-round.

In case you are interested, the San Diego Farm Bureau lists a good number of these markets (including the schedules), several of which I have visited...and they are well worth the time. The Carlsbad Farmer's Market is held on Wednesdays in the village from 1 - 5 PM and on Saturdays from 9 - 1. This is my favorite, but then I may be biased since I live in Carlsbad.

The Farmer's Market in Encinitas is held every Sunday from 10 - 2 at the Paul Ecke Elementary School grounds on Vulcan Avenue in Leucadia, a funky, eclectic community with a strong surfing history and presence.

Going to the market is a great way to buy some of the freshest produce around (prices are usually quite good, but you may spend a bit more than you could at Henry's), but it is also a terrific way to support our local farming community. Bring cash - they don't take VISA or AMEX!

But in addition to fruits and vegetables (some of which are specialty items you won't find in the stores), you will always find a great selection of flowers, and breads, as well as a number of vendors selling all sorts of consumable products (an Italian gourmet shop, for example, and a Greek purveyor of cheeses and olive oils that are to die for). There were even a couple of artisans selling jewelry and other handmade items.

The market is a fun outing and a great way to do some outdoor food shopping - it doesn't get much fresher unless you go pick it yourself. Please support our farming community!