When you think of Downtown Stockton, you might recall the times you’ve been to the Courthouse for jury duty, the County Administration for a Board of Supervisors meeting, or even the DMV for a driving test. What if I told you there’s more to Downtown Stockton than just its civil services?
Every Saturday since 1979, farmers from all over the Central Valley and the Bay Area flock over to Downtown Stockton for the Golden Villa Farmers’ Market. Located just conveniently under Highway Four, near the Sutter Street and Washington Street intersection, it is named as one of the oldest farmers’ markets in California with now forty-seven years of business.
Buying at a Bargain
This past Saturday, I put my sleep aside to get firsthand experience of Golden Villa Farmers’ Market success. Upon my 7:00AM arrival to Lot D — where vendors set up their stations — I was awed by the amount of foot traffic Golden Villa received on such a fog-filled day. Despite the gloomy weather, there were lines of people chattering as they waited for their turn to talk to vendors. People came prepared with carts and even flashlights to help them view the best deals their produce was priced at. To my surprise, fruit and veggies weren’t the only thing the market had to offer. Some vendors were selling sugar cane, chicken feet, snails, and more. “Variety” becomes the first word that comes to mind when I reflect on my Saturday at the market.
Attendee Testimonial…