Lakeside residents have a new place to shop for fresh food, discover local businesses and spend time with neighbors after the Lakeside Farmers Market opened Sept. 10.
The weekly market will make its debut from 3 to 7 p.m. at Equine Event Services/Diane Jacob Equestrian Park, 11055 Moreno Ave. Admission and parking are free.
The Lakeside Chamber of Commerce will mark the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Several Bulls Only Rodeo Queens are expected to attend, including Miss Poway Rodeo and Miss Teen Rodeo USA.
The market will operate every Thursday and feature local farmers, specialty food vendors, artisans, makers and other small businesses. Offerings are expected to include fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet foods, handcrafted items and other products from throughout San Diego County.
The market is hosted by SoCal Stroke Survivors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting stroke survivors and their families through education, support and healthy living.
Its founder, Robert Betancourt, is a stroke survivor and credits healthier eating as an important part of his recovery.
“Having delicious, fresh food options conveniently available makes healthy eating both achievable and exciting,” Betancourt said.
For market manager Amber Esparza, however, the Thursday event is intended to be about more than buying food.
“We’re creating a place where people can meet their neighbors, discover amazing local businesses, and enjoy everything that makes East County special,” Esparza said. “We hope The Lakeside Farmers Market becomes a weekly tradition where families, friends, and neighbors come together while supporting the small businesses that make our community thrive.”
The market also will offer special events throughout the year.
Beginning Nov. 5, a monthly First Thursdays celebration will add live music, a beer and wine garden, a featured car club showcase, additional vendors and other activities designed to bring residents together after work.
The regular market will follow seasonal hours. From May through October, it will operate from 3 to 7 p.m. From November through April, hours will shift to 2 to 6 p.m.
Organizers are still accepting vendors, including farmers, specialty food producers, artisans, makers and other local businesses.
The market is just off State Route 67 near Willows Road at Equine Event Services/Diane Jacob Equestrian Park.
The Lakeside Farmers Market opens Thursday, Sept. 10, from 3 to 7 p.m. at 11055 Moreno Ave., Lakeside. Admission and parking are free.
For Lakeside residents, the new market offers another regular place to shop locally while connecting with the farmers, makers, food producers and small businesses serving East County.
