Farmers Market kicks off season Friday night

LINDSAY — Barring rain, the popular Lindsay Farmers Market starts the season off Friday with more than 180 vendors offering anything from fresh produce to clothing.

The Lindsay Farmers Market is more than the average Farmers Market, but rather a flea market as well and a place to dine and spend time with family and friends, said Virginia Loya, market manager.

What started in 2004, has grown to more than 30 restaurants participating at the market, mostly from Lindsay with a couple from Porterville. And there are some new vendors this year, Loya said.

“We try to control it, so we have variety and not everyone has the same thing,” she said.

Many of the favorite fresh produce vendors are returning and retail vendors participate as well with everything from jewelry, shoes, clothing, purses and sunglasses.

Approximately 75 percent of the vendors are from Lindsay, Loya said, while the balance come from around the area.

The majority of attendees are from Lindsay as well, but people come from as far as San Jose and the coast, she said.

“I walk around and talk to people and ask them where they are from,” Loya said. “They come from all over.
“They like to hear the music, eat, visit and pick up their produce,” she said.

A disc jockey will entertain this Friday featuring traditional and old-fashion favorites as well as modern Mexican music. Other entertainment is planned for each market, including live bands as the weather turns more predictable.

Some 3,000 to 4,000 attendees are expected this week, Loya said, and the numbers should increase to 5,000 - 6,000 in a few weeks.

With the growing number of vendors and attendees, the Farmers Market is broadening its area from Sweet Briar Plaza toward downtown.

There is vendor space available for upcoming markets. Interested parties should contact Loya at 333-1994.