What better way to spend a morning in wine country, than perusing fresh and locally grown produce, local artisan food and products and feeling ‘like a local’? If you are a visitor to the Napa Valley and have rented an apartment or a house with a kitchen (which I highly recommend), the farmer’s market is the best place to grab fresh ingredients to cook up for dinner. Regardless of the season, there are always yummy things to choose from. And of course, locally grown food is even better paired with local wines, of which there are an abundance in the Napa Valley!
Need suggestions for which wines to pair with which dishes? Ask your local winery concierges or managers, while you are there tasting and buying wines. Or, you can also feel free to email me with any of your questions (I am a 17-year wine industry veteran after all….).
Napa Farmers’ Market
A lively farmers market that showcases some of the finest farms and most talented artisans in Northern California. In addition to a market that hosts many dozens of local farmers and vendors, the Napa Farmers’ Market also features chef demos, the very popular storytime hour at the Education Station and ‘Harvest of the Month’ produce tastings.
When: Saturdays 8:30-1 pm year-round
Where: 195 Gasser Dr, Napa, CA 94559 *Starting Feb 8, 2020, the market will move to Napa Valley Expo Fairgrounds. For parking: Use the Silverado Trail RV Park entrance and park in front of Zinfandel Hall
St. Helena Farmers’ Market at Crane Park
A beautiful venue for meeting friends, greeting neighbors and enjoying a delightful musical interlude every Friday morning. Enjoy fresh produce, gourmet food vendors, beautiful handcrafted items and non-profit organizations in this family-friendly atmosphere with Kids’ Programs, a large Kid’s Playground and shaded Individual and Group Picnic Areas under the Redwood Trees
When: Fridays 7:30 am to 12 pm from May through October
Where: Crane Park, 360 Crane Avenue, St. Helena
Calistoga Farmers’ Market
The Calistoga Market offers a variety of fresh, healthy produce; supports local growers; connects consumers with vendors who may provide tips on nutrition and food preparation, All this while providing a boost to the local economy and attracting tourists.
When: Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm year-round
Where: 1311 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515 *Next to the Community Center across from City Hall.