The Pasadena Farmers Market is celebrating 40 years of providing fresh products and supporting local farmers in our community.
Since the 1980s, this market has flourished in two locations. The first locations are Villa Parke, 363 E. Villa St., and Victory Park, 2575 Paloma St. The original location, opened in 1980, welcomes Pasadena community members on Tuesday mornings. . The store, which opened in Victory Park in 1984, grew out of the overwhelming success of its first attempt and serves customers on weekends.
“Farmers markets introduce us to the hard-working farmers who grow food for their families,” said Gretchen Sterling, manager of the Pasadena Certified Farmers Market. “Farmers work long hours, deal with changeable weather conditions, and travel long distances to get to our markets each week.”
In addition to its economic impact, the Pasadena Farmers Market has also supported a variety of community needs. Its philanthropic efforts range from supplying clothing and school supplies to paying for summer camps and providing transportation to special events. The city says this support will ensure educational and extracurricular opportunities for generations of youth in the area.
In 1995, the city's Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services (PRCS) assumed full responsibility for operating the farmers market. The program was so successful that it provided surplus funds to enhance recreational efforts across his four community centers in the city.
“PRCS is proud to support such a meaningful and long-lasting program,” said PRCS Director Koko Panossian. “The Pasadena Farmers Market aligns with our mission to provide affordable resources, encourage healthy choices and foster connections within our community.”
