If you plan on visiting a farmers’ market either in the Southern California region or anywhere across the country, it is important to understand the difference between a certified and non-certified farmers’ markets.  Certified farmers’ markets are approved market sites by a County Agricultural Commissioner and the Health Department.  Generally, the marketplaces are part of a statewide program designed to increase the sustainability of small farmers by connecting the consumer and the farmer.

Some markets have other vendors outside of the certified section to complement the farmers’ produce, selling bread, meats and fish, dairy products, prepared food, and local crafts. All farmers that sell at the Certified Section must have a Certified Producers Certificate from their local Agricultural Commissioner verifying that they grow the items that they sell.

When you visit a local farmers’ market, you get the opportunity to interact with members of the local community—and if you’re in Southern California, once in a while, you may spot a well-known celebrity or two.