Most are familiar with the Pacific Beach Farmers Market on Tuesdays along Bayard Street, but some may not be aware there is another “original” farmers market on Saturdays marking a milestone this year.
“Thirty years ago, a group of farmers started the Pacific Beach Farmers Market at the Promenade, 4150 Mission Blvd., which has operated on Saturdays from 8 to noon ever since,” said Mary Hillebrecht, manager of the farmers market. “It was a new program in the state that allowed farmers to sell directly to consumers without putting their products in a standard commercial package. At the time, there were no other markets in the City of San Diego.”
Hillebrecht noted PB’s first farmers market will celebrate its 30th anniversary on March 24 and 31.
“The market has had many highs and lows, many family farms were sustained by it, and many consumers have enjoyed fresh, local products and a chance to communicate with the people who grew it,” Hillebrecht said, noting, as older generations have retired, “younger farmers have begun to find this market as an opportunity to market their products.
“The market has stayed true to its roots by having only farmers participating – a marketplace defined by its name,” she said.
Added Hillebrecht, “Many other farmers markets have developed over the years in San Diego, but this was the beginning from whence they grew.”
The original market is held in its downsized form in the parking lot at the Promenade, alternating between the north and south lot.
“We invite everyone who likes to support local farmers to join us on Saturday mornings,” Hillebrecht said, noting the market has changed little throughout the years.
“Our rule is, you have to grow what you sell,” she said. “Thirty years later, we still have local farmers selling what they’ve grown. That hasn’t changed.”
Hillebrecht said guests attending the farmers market celebrating its anniversary may look forward to special giveaways and other treats. Pacific Beach Farmers Market at the Promenade Where: 4150 Mission Blvd. Where:?8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. What:?30th anniversary March 24 and 31.
