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San Rafael's Spectacular Farmers' Markets
3501 Civic Center DrSan Rafael, CA 94903-4112 Phone: (415) 472-6100About
Rub elbows with chefs, farmers, and artists at one of the state’s best outdoor markets, open year-round. With rows of fresh produce, a special bakery section, deluxe prepared foods, artisan crafts, chef demos, and low-key entertainment, what’s not to love about the twice-weekly, year-round farmers’ market at San Rafael’s Marin County Civic Center—especially when he backdrop is the center itself, designed by master architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Packing in locals (as well as savvy chefs who load up on farm-fresh ingredients for their restaurants), the highly successful market has been selling mostly organic produce and a host of other delectable foods since 1987. Held Sundays and Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the market attracts over 100 local farmers and specialty food vendors. Walk the rows to sample award-winning organic blue cheeses and chevre by Cowgirl Creamery, or nab a homemade apple pie and giant chocolate chip cookie from Little Ladybug Bakery. Pick up a hand-dyed scarf or elegant glasswork, or other handmade gifts—a wonderful one-stop source for artisan works at Christmas. You can also participate in Eat Local 101 workshops with chef demonstrations and cooking classes. Thursday markets are packed at lunch, when locals descend for incredible al fresco options. Or they just go for dessert—why not when you’ve got red velvet cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting by Teeny Cakes
