By Carlee Leonhard, Farmers Market Ambassador Coordinator

Old Courthouse Square in Downtown Santa Rosa came to life on Sunday, May 18, with the launch of a new seasonal farmers market, open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through September 28, 2025. With a vibrant mix of fresh produce, local vendors, and strong community energy, opening day was met with enthusiasm from shoppers, vendors, and passersby.

“This is exactly what downtown needs,” said Kelly Smith, Executive Director of Agricultural Community Events (ACE) Farmers Markets. “You could see people walking in, looking surprised; some didn’t even realize a market was happening until they stumbled on it. That’s what makes it exciting. It’s waking up a new part of the city.”

A Market for Everyone with ‘A Great Mix’ of Vendors and Visitors

This new Sunday market delivers the full farmers market experience — fresh produce, mushrooms, pasture-raised meats and eggs, artisan baked goods, hot food, and handmade crafts — all in a beautiful downtown setting. With the Central Santa Rosa Library and the Santa Rosa Plaza just steps away, it’s an ideal stop for locals and visitors alike.

“We were greeted by blue skies, beautiful weather, and lots of curious faces,” said Valentina Castro, a Farmers Market Ambassador supporting the market. “Neighbors walked over from nearby apartments, families made a morning of it, and some dedicated shoppers came early looking for the first stone fruit of the season.”

“There was a great mix of people,” added Amy Kram, vendor and owner of The Scarlet Flour. “Some folks walked from their homes and said they were thrilled there was finally a market on a Sunday they could attend. Others were just out shopping or visiting town and wandered in. Everyone had really positive feedback.”

Amy also noted how the market’s purpose sets it apart from other events. “It’s not like the (Santa Rosa) Wednesday night market, which is more of a concert and hangout,” she explained. “This is a real farmers market, with a good number of farmers, food vendors, and people genuinely coming to shop. It draws people in.”

CalFresh Accepted at the Market for Expanded Access to Fresh Food

Another highlight from opening day was the high turnout of CalFresh shoppers, with more EBT usage than expected. There is strong interest in the Market Match program, which the market is currently applying to be a part of.

Market Match offers matching funds to CalFresh customers to spend on fruits and vegetables, making fresh food more accessible and affordable.

“We had crossover customers from our Farmers Lane market and at least ten CalFresh shoppers on day one,” said Kelly. “The energy is there, and the need is real. This market is going to make a big impact.”

Editor’s note: The market’s application for Market Match program is under consideration as of May 27. We will update this blog post when a decision is announced.

Family-Friendly Activities Planned

Throughout the summer, the Santa Rosa Downtown Farmers Market will feature Second Sunday events with family-friendly activities, library partnerships, and community organization booths. With momentum already building, each week will bring new opportunities to connect, explore, and support the local food economy.

“This market already feels like it belongs here,” said Amy. “It’s a beautiful space, a great time slot, and a solid mix of vendors and community.”

Come Join Us This Summer

Make your Sunday plans in the heart of Santa Rosa.
Shop local, eat well, and support your farmers.

Santa Rosa Downtown Farmers Market
Courthouse Square – Sundays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Now through September 28, 2025
CalFresh accepted

Visit OurFarmersMarkets.org to learn more, and follow us on Instagram @ourfarmersmarkets and Facebook at Farmers’ Market LIFE for updates and vendor highlights.