Community, Sustainability

Hayward Farmers' Market

10 reasons why you should be shopping here.

April 18, 2016

The Hayward Farmers' Market has been a staple in the Hayward community for over 20 years, providing delicious, fresh from the farm fruits and vegetables to residents from all over Hayward. Whether you have never been or only gone a few times, you should make it a priority to shop this Hayward gem. Not Convinced? Here are 10 reasons why you should shop at the Hayward Farmers' Market this week and every week:

1. They accept EBT/WIC/Market Match.

The Hayward Farmers' Market is committed to making sure that everyone has access to fresh, nutritious food. That is why they have partnered with the United States Department of Agriculture to provide fresh, unprepared, locally grown fruits and vegetables to participants in the EBT, WIC, or Market Match programs. For more information about how this program works check out the Agricultural Institute of Marin's site.

2. ATMs are available.

Did you forget your cash? Don't worry. There is an ATM available for shoppers at the information booth as well as several other ATMs in the area, including one at US Bank on the corner of B street.

3. The Hayward Farmers' Market features over 35 farmers, food purveyors, and artisans.

Selling everything from locally grown and organic produce, to seafood, honey, cheese, and breads the Hayward Market really has it all. All of the produce is grown locally by California Certified Producers who have to pass a rigorous application process before they are given the opportunity to sell at the Hayward Market - this is all done to ensure that the Hayward Market always has the freshest, highest quality products available.

4. It is a Certified Farmers Market.

This means that the government checks to make sure that produce that is sold is not only safe, nutritious, vine and tree-ripened but that is also California-grown and Certified by the State of California. 

5. They are open every Saturday - rain or shine.

You read that right. The Hayward Farmers' Market is open every single Saturday, year-round, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. So if you are looking for something to compliment your summer BBQ, or fresh oranges for sunday brunch, The Hayward Market has you covered!

6. They are often more affordable than shopping at the grocery store.

When people think of farmers' markets the word "Affordable" rarely comes to mind but shopping at the Hayward Market can be affordable and even save you money. Comparing the price of organic produce from chain grocers to prices at The Hayward Farmers' Market you will often find that by shopping for fruits and vegetables that are at the peak of their season, you will actually save money! Plus, the elimination of packing, shipping, and wholesale costs means that you save money. Don't believe me? Check out this Apples to Apples comparison from the Agricultural Institute of Marin.

7. The Hayward Farmers' Market is kid friendly!

Bringing your kids to the market is a great learning experience and can help foster a lifelong healthy relationship with the food they eat. There are guided tours, self-guided tours and even a Farm Field Studies Program. Kids will be able to ask the farmers about where the food comes from, the growing process and the difference between fresh and processed foods. It is also a great place to introduce new foods. Let your kids pick out a fruit or vegetable they have never eaten before, take it home and use it to prepare a meal together. Kids are more likely to the food if they are part of the preparation process. Get more information about touring the Hayward Market or scheduling a Farm Field Study trip here.

8. Location, location, location!

The Hayward Farmers' Market is located on Watkins, between B and C Streets next to the Hayward City Hall Plaza, just one block from the Hayward BART station. There is also plenty of FREE parking in the B Street/ Mission Blvd garage (Enter on Mission Blvd). 

9. The Friends of the Hayward Public Library Book Sale.

Bi-monthly the Friends of the Hayward Public Library hosts a book sale. This is a wonderful addition to the Hayward Market - great deals on books for kids, teens, and adults and the proceeds benefit the Hayward Public Library! To find out when the next one will be happening see the Hayward Public Library Calendar.

10. You will be helping the community.

Purchasing fruits and vegetables from farmer's markets supports local family farms that in turn creates local jobs and boosts the local economy. Also, because farmer's markets do not require produce to be shipped far, and they operate in the open air, they significantly reduce the use of fossil fuels and electricity which makes for a cleaner, greener, and healthier community all around!

 

So there you have it, 10 reasons why you should come out this Saturday and every Saturday to shop at the Hayward Farmers' Market!

For more information about the market see their webpage.