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The Ultimate 2026 Guide To Antioch, CA Farmers Markets: 5 Must-Know Secrets For Fresh Produce & Artisan Goods

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As of December 23, 2025, the farmers market scene in Antioch, California, is vibrant and ready for the 2026 season, offering residents and visitors two distinct and essential venues for sourcing fresh, local produce and unique artisan goods. Forget outdated schedules and general information; this guide provides the precise, current details you need to plan your shopping trips, whether you're looking for a bustling weekend experience in historic Rivertown or a convenient weekday stop at the Kaiser Permanente campus. Antioch, a jewel of East Contra Costa County, is uniquely positioned to benefit from the rich agricultural lands of the Central Valley, making its local markets a treasure trove of California-grown bounty. The two main markets—the Downtown Rivertown Market and the Kaiser Permanente Market—are the backbone of the city's local food movement, connecting the community directly with dozens of certified local growers and talented food artisans.

The Downtown Rivertown Antioch Farmers Market: The Sunday Tradition

The Downtown Antioch Farmers Market is the city's premier weekend gathering, a bustling hub of activity that anchors the historic Rivertown District every Sunday. This market is more than just a place to shop; it's a community event that brings life and energy to downtown, supported by the City of Antioch and the Celebrate Antioch Foundation.

2026 Downtown Market Schedule and Location

Unlike many seasonal markets, the Downtown Antioch Farmers Market is a reliable weekly fixture during its operating months, running rain or shine.

  • Day: Every Sunday
  • Time: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
  • Location: I Street & 3rd Street Parking Lot, Antioch, CA (Historic Rivertown District)
  • Organized By: California Farmers Market Association (CFMA)

What Makes the Rivertown Market a Must-Visit?

The Rivertown location provides a picturesque backdrop, often featuring music and other local events that complement the shopping experience. Shoppers can expect a wide array of offerings from over 25 farmers and vendors, making it a comprehensive destination for your weekly groceries and specialty items.

  • Certified Produce: A vast selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables, often picked just hours before the market opens.
  • Prepared Foods: Freshly baked breads, pastries, and other prepared foods from local favorites like Little Sky Bakery.
  • Artisan Goods: The market is a showcase for local food artisans, including those offering unique handcrafted goods, cheeses, and jams.
  • Community Vibe: Its location in the Rivertown District makes it easy to combine your market trip with a visit to local shops and eateries.

Kaiser Permanente Antioch Farmers’ Market: Weekday Freshness

For those who prefer a mid-week shopping trip or a more convenient location in the southern part of the city, the Kaiser Permanente Antioch Farmers' Market is an indispensable resource. This market is known for its focus on fresh, certified produce and its commitment to community wellness, often running for a longer season than its downtown counterpart.

The 2026 Kaiser Market Season is Confirmed

The 2026 season for the Kaiser Permanente market is officially scheduled, providing a consistent source of fresh food throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

  • Day: Every Thursday
  • Time: 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM
  • Location: 4501 Sand Creek Road, Antioch, CA (On the Kaiser campus, off Wellness Way)
  • 2026 Season Dates: April 2nd, 2026 – November 19th, 2026

Why Shop at the Sand Creek Road Location?

The Kaiser market, managed by the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association (PCFMA), is highly valued for its accessibility and its direct link to local growers. It’s an ideal spot for East County residents to quickly grab their weekly staples.

  • Convenient Hours: The mid-morning hours make it perfect for a quick stop after a morning appointment or before the workday begins.
  • Certified Growers: The market strictly adheres to certified market standards, guaranteeing that you are buying directly from the California farms that grew the produce.
  • Health Focus: Being on the Kaiser campus, the market emphasizes healthy, fresh eating, often featuring farm fresh eggs and a variety of Asian vegetables alongside traditional produce.

Supporting Local Growers and Discovering Unique Antioch Entities

The Antioch farmers markets are a critical economic engine for local agriculture and small businesses. By shopping here, you are directly supporting the regional food ecosystem, including numerous family farms in Contra Costa County and beyond.

Meet the Local Farms and Artisan Entities

The markets serve as a direct sales point for many farms that are either local to Antioch or the surrounding Northern California region. This direct-to-consumer model ensures the freshest possible ingredients and fair prices for both the grower and the shopper. Key entities and types of vendors you are supporting include:

  • Local Farms: Shoppers often find produce from farms such as Coyote Family Farm, Mountain Bounty Farm, Urban Tilth, Eatwell Farm, Freshness Farms, and Jana Farms.
  • Artisan Bakers: Look for baked goods from entities like Little Sky Bakery, which often sell out quickly due to high demand.
  • Market Management: Organizations like the California Farmers Market Association (CFMA) and the Celebrate Antioch Foundation are crucial to the markets' successful operation.
  • Specialty Goods: Beyond produce, the markets host vendors offering items like honey, flowers, nuts, and specialty prepared foods.

5 Must-Know Secrets for the Best Market Experience

  1. Arrive Early for the Best Selection: Popular items like specialty pastries and certain seasonal produce (e.g., Asian vegetables, peaches) often sell out before noon, especially at the Downtown Rivertown Market.
  2. Check for EBT/WIC Acceptance: Both certified farmers' markets in Antioch are authorized to accept various food assistance programs, including WIC and EBT, making fresh food accessible to all community members.
  3. Bring Cash and Reusable Bags: While many vendors accept cards, cash is often preferred for quick transactions, and reusable bags are essential for carrying your bounty of Contra Costa County produce.
  4. Explore Rivertown: On Sundays, take time to explore the historic Rivertown District. The market is often paired with other local attractions and events, such as the Second Sunday Artisan Market, enhancing the overall experience.
  5. Ask the Farmers: The biggest advantage of a certified farmers market is the direct connection to the grower. Ask them for cooking tips, storage advice, and the best way to enjoy their unique products.
The Antioch farmers markets are more than just shopping destinations; they are a vital part of the city's culture, offering a taste of the region's agricultural richness and a strong sense of community. Make sure to mark your calendar for the 2026 season and take advantage of these wonderful local resources.
The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Antioch, CA Farmers Markets: 5 Must-Know Secrets for Fresh Produce & Artisan Goods
farmers market antioch ca
farmers market antioch ca

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