Irvine Farmer's Market
The farmer's market in Irvine has a selection of fresh produce and other edibles from 70 local farmers. Cherries, strawberries, peaches and apricots are just some of the fruit that are coming into season. The farmers are more than willing to let you sample their produce...and you will. Large ripe red strawberries beckon to be tasted. There is a selection of fruit and vegetables for everyone.
If you do not fancy the produce there are many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern stands selling hummas in an array of flavors, balklava (sorry no samples here), pita bread, olive oils and vinegars. The bakers have a variety of breads, from whole wheat, to walnut cinnamon loafs. For those of you who fancy something sweeter there are baked goods,cinnamon rolls, lemon poppyseed cake, and chocolate cupcakes overflowing with icing. I treated myself to some kettle corn. You will not feel guilty eating the sanck size bag as that is what it is snack size.
The flower market has a beautiful selection of freshly picked flowers, their scent wafting throughout the market. Get there early as they go quickly.
Musicians make the shopping experiece all the more enjoyable.
I did not spend much time looking at the crafts, but I did notice some stands selling jewellary and candles.
This is without a doubt one of the better markets in Orange County.
Located at Bridge, Market and Campus in Irvine, it is held Saturdays 8 a.m. unitl noon.
First Harvest for Produce:
January: Avocado, strawberry, broccoli, lemon, cabbage, cauliflower, peas, lettuce
February: Orange, kumquat, artichoke, rhubarb, tangerine, carrot, celery, beets
March: Squash, asparagus, grapefruit
April: Turnip, radish
May: Corn, beans, potato, tomato, onion, cucumber
June: Peach, plum, apricot, eggplant, pepper, berries
July: Melon, grape, sweet potato, apple, pepper, figs
September: Pumpkin, macadamia nut
October: Pear
November: Persimmon, kiwi
December: Tangerine
