History of Farmers' Markets

Kettle Corn and Farmers’ Markets Go Together

Farmers’ Markets Used to be Illegal

Before 1977, farmers’ markets were not permitted to legally operate in California. Farmers could not sell directly to the public.

The Peach Revolt of 1977

During an unprecedented surplus in the 1977 peach harvest, the excess peaches were left to rot due to the strict regulations preventing farmers from selling directly to the consumer. In protest, the farmers dumped the rotting peaches on the lawn of the state capitol. California governor Jerry Brown responded by relaxing the guidelines to allow farmers to sell their produce at special markets, now known as certified farmers’ markets.

First Farmers’ Market in California

The Gardena farmers’ market was launched in 1979 to provide a venue for farmers to sell their goods directly to consumers. The market benefited small, family-run farms, giving them the opportunity to remain competitive as the agricultural industry became increasingly commercial.

Roaring Success

Starting from these humble beginnings, the movement has quickly grown into a vigorous statewide network of over 700 weekly markets. Nationwide, by 1994, there were a reported 1,755 farmers’ markets in operation across the country; by 2006, that number had grown to 4,385, and by 2009 to over 5,000.

Current Size of the Movement

According to the 1996 USDA Farmers' Market Survey report, national fruit and vegetable sales through farmers’ markets exceed $1.1 billion per year. More than a million customers visit farmers’ markets every week. One quarter of this activity ($250 million annually) is in California.

Los Angeles Times article by Russ Parsons | Times Staff Writer, May 24, 2006