Farmers’ Market Celebrates 75 Years in Los Angeles
By Pasadena Independent
Published: Wednesday, July 8th, 2009
It was 75 years ago that a group of farmers loaded pick-up trucks with fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products for sale, parked in an empty lot at the corner of Third and Fairfax in Los Angeles and started the city’s first “Farmers’ Market.”
Since that summer in 1934, the market has remained open to the public, while becoming a historical landmark and famous attraction along the way.
To celebrate the monumental anniversary, the market is having a week-long celebration commencing on July 13.
“We are going to celebrate our birthday and thank Los Angeles for the wonderful support and affection it has given us,” said Hank Hilty, President of the A. F. Gilmore Company and a direct descendent of A. F. Gilmore and his son, E. B., who created the Market back in 1934.
The occasion will be highlighted by a “Taste of Farmers Market” on Tuesday, July 14th, from 5 to 9 PM. With the purchase of a $20 all-inclusive ticket, visitors can stroll the market sampling food from virtually all of the 36 restaurants. In addition, retail and grocery merchants at the Market will offer special sales on select merchandise. There will also be music and entertainment.
To preview the festivities and offer birthday wishes, I recently popped into the market. I went hungry because when it comes to unique LA dining options, nothing compares. From seafood, French and Chinese, to Mediterranean, Cajun, barbecue and more, the market packs in an incredible array of delicious restaurants in a compact open-air food court area.
When I arrived on Sunday afternoon, the place was packed with locals and tourists. A kaleidoscope of aromas was circulating through the walkways. I was hungry, but when hit by this, I became overwhelmed and had to find a spot quickly.
After circling the grounds a few times, I narrowed my search to two restaurants. It was going to be fresh fish at Tusquellas Seafoods, where a boat load of lobster, shrimp, salmon, tuna, cod, snapper and other daily catches sat on a bed of ice, beckoning; or baby back ribs with Cole slaw, potatoes wedges, and real strawberry lemonade at Bryan’s BBQ. It was tough, but I chose the latter.
After lunch I discovered Light My Fire, a condiment store with hundreds of hot sauces from around the world. Ranging from mild to spicy to insanely hot, the sauces are come in uniquely labeled bottles with a heat scale from 1 to 10 posted on the side.
From here I explored hand-made chocolate, caramel and toffee candy at Littlejohn’s English Toffee House, and then fresh breads, cookies, rolls and desserts at Thee’s Continental Bakery
The market currently features free Live music every Thursday and Friday Night. Every Friday and Saturday from noon – 5pm, regional farmers sell fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and other locally grown produce and foodstuff.
Farmers’ Market is located at 6333 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90036. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat & Sun 9am – 8pm. For more info call (323) 933-9211 or visit www.farmersmarketla.com.
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