Long Beach Farmers Markets: Fresh, Healthy Food for Seniors

It's time to head to the farmers market! If you're a senior living in Long Beach, a trip to a local farmers market is a wholesome way to spend a morning. It can also be a great way to get great deals on produce. Long Beach residents benefit from the year-round sunshine and longer growing season here in Southern California. That's not all!

In California, certified farmers markets are only permitted to sell what they grow. That means that you always know exactly where your food is coming from. In fact, you can typically shake hands with the same person who grew the food you're purchasing when you check out because farmers generally haul their own goods in instead of hiring sales associates to run their booths for them. The difference truly is found in the taste, color, and texture of the amazing produce that you will find at the various farmers markets around Long Beach. Ready for a change of pace from getting all of your food at the grocery store? This guide to Long Beach's best farmers markets will lead you to the best spots for fresh produce, local artisanal goods, and healthy meal options that you won't find anywhere else.

Located at 120 Cherry Avenue, Bixby Park is already a popular spot for families who enjoy visiting the playground. Visitors also enjoy strolling around with beautiful ocean views just across the street from the park. On Tuesdays, Bixby Park is transformed into a little seaside "festival" when the farmer booths move in for the afternoon. The Bixby Park Farmers Market runs from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays. Farmers show up with wide selections of fresh-picked fruits and vegetables. In addition, local artisans and business owners bring handmade jewelry, soaps, candles, and more. If you're in the mood for a light bite when walking around the market, consider grabbing a hot meal from one of the stands. Prefer a visit on the weekend? Bixby Park's Saturday farmers market runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. While many of the same vendors return, both the vendor list and the crowds tend to be a little bigger!

Located at 5255 Paoli Way, Marine Stadium is a stunning waterfront area that locals know for rowing, boat races, and picnicking. The farmers market rolls in on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of locally grown fruits and veggies. In addition, this is one of the best farmers markets in Long Beach for grabbing bouquets of fresh-cut flowers. You can also grab some fresh-baked goodies, hot dishes, and specialty coffee to enjoy while browsing. Vendors here also sell handicrafts.

This market takes place on Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 7120 Bissell Street. Expect up to a dozen local certified growers to show up every week. In fact, the Huntington Park Farmers Market actually publishes its vendor list to help shoppers plan their visits.

Located between East 46th Street and Atlantic Avenue, this market runs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Seniors will enjoy the wholesome vibe as they walk through stalls that include local growers and artisans. This is a great place to shop for locally grown vegetables and melons. The market at Bixby Knolls offers a nice selection of hot dishes and "street foods" to enjoy for dinner. Vendors also sell prepared foods and "snacks" that you'll be eager to nibble on when you get home.

Located at 205 North Marine Drive, this market takes place in the parking lot bordering the harbor. Enjoy scenic views from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. as you browse the city's best selection of fresh seafood, locally grown fruits and vegetables, and artisanal goods. Vendors often show up with amazing jams, chesses, breads, and meats. You will also usually find vendors selling handmade and organic soaps and balms.

Taking place on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 5000 Spring Street, this quaint market offers locally grown and organic produce, baked goods, and packaged foods. Vendors often show up with organic honey, hummus, cheeses, and more!

Nothing is more satisfying than getting out of your home or assisted living community in Long Beach for a few hours to shop for yummy goodies! If you're diving into the world of farmers markets for the first time, you might have a few questions. There are some basic things to know about how these outdoor markets work. First, try to remember to bring your own reusable bags. Plastic or cloth totes with handles work best because they will allow you to carry apples, melons, and all types of heavy, loose produce much easier. While vendors will generally provide you with bags, giving out bags can be costly for them. What's more, they generally give out paper bags that are easy to rip and difficult to carry.

The next big thing to know is that you should bring smaller bills. If you're paying with cash, vendors may not be able to make change for larger bills. Most vendors do accept cards. SNAP EBT cards are also accepted at farmers markets in California.

Let's move into farmers market etiquette. First, avoid touching produce that you aren't buying. Organic, locally grown produce can bruise much more easily compared to supermarket produce that's been treated with sprays or waxes. You should also spare judgment about the appearance of some of the produce. Organic produce can often be smaller and "duller" compared to supermarket produce because it's grown naturally. Rest assured that the flavor and nutrients are there! Finally, avoid haggling or trying to get a bargain. Prices at farmers markets are set. Growers have carefully priced their produce based on the cost of production. They are already working with very thin margins when selling their goods.