Northeastern California is one of the most rural parts of the state, but that doesn’t mean fresh produce is out of reach. Farmers markets, like the Redding Farmers Market and others throughout the Shasta Cascades, are making California Grown fruits, vegetables, and nuts more accessible than ever.
The farmers markets in Shasta Cascade offer locals and visiting outdoor enthusiasts a delicious opportunity to savor the region’s bounty. Visit one of these five markets to enjoy the amazing produce that thrives even in this rugged part of the state.
Redding Farmers Market – Shasta County
The Redding Farmers Market is proud to be one of California’s oldest certified farmers markets! At this year-round market, you’ll find a seasonal selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with eggs, nuts, honey, oils, meats, flowers, baked goods, coffee and more. In this part of the state, cattle ranches easily outnumber orchards, but local growers are known for producing excellent walnuts, apples, olives, stone fruit, pistachios and berries!
Red Bluff Farmers Market – Tehama County
Situated at the northern end of the Central Valley, Red Bluff is a thriving agricultural community, and the farmers market here reflects that rich bounty. During the busier months, the Red Bluff Farmers Market boasts up to 40 vendors! On Saturday mornings, folks swing by to stock up on fresh, locally grown tomatoes, berries, prunes, stonefruit, peppers and more. From June to August, the Wednesday Night Farmers Market comes alive with music, face painting, balloon art, food trucks, drinks, and more – making it the go-to spot for midweek fun.
Historic Susanville Farmers Market – Lassen County
Over half a million people head to Lassen County each year, eager to explore the region’s clear lakes, bubbling mudpots and majestic meadows. However, this remote area is also home to hundreds of farms and ranches. If you’re visiting Lassen National Volcanic Park in the summer, get a taste of Lassen County at the Historic Susanville Farmers Market. Fill your basket with locally grown produce, flowers, meats, and eggs, while perusing handmade goods from local artisans!
Mount Shasta Farmers Market – Siskiyou County
The geography of the Shasta Cascades can be a bit tricky to navigate. Despite the similar names, Mount Shasta is nearly an hour from Lake Shasta—and it’s not even in Shasta County! Mount Shasta is a popular tourist destination offering skiing, fishing, climbing, hiking, biking and more. If you’re spending a summer week at Mount Shasta, swing by their Monday Night Farmers Market to stock up on California Grown produce. Then, pack a picnic and explore the area surrounding the mysterious mountain – keeping an eye out for any Lemurians that might emerge (if you know, you know).
Weaverville Farmers Market – Trinity County
Strolling through historic downtown Weaverville feels a bit like stepping back in time. This charming Gold Rush town’s farmers market has an equally old-fashioned feel – with vendors selling locally grown fruits, vegetables, nuts, eggs, honey and more in a grassy park right off of Main Street.
Article by Hilary Rance. Photography by Hilary Rance, James Collier and Leah Judson.