Fullerton Farmer's Market

By: Rory Woods (Jul 25, 2008)
Hosted by the City of Fullerton, this market now seems to cater to a part of the community who prefers to shop at Trader Joe's and use the market as a social scene. The beer/wine garden grew by about 25% since last year, providing even more opportunity for public intoxication in downtown Fullerton ("DTF").

The majority of vendors are not selling produce, but clothing, jewelry and prepared food. One week, I even saw someone selling Razor scooters! As of July 2008, there were fewer than half a dozen stands with fresh produce.

There is a kids' train which runs up and down Wilshire Avenue, where most of the vendors are situated. The "engineer" is, in my opinion, quite brazen. I regularly feel quite annoyed at its sound, presence and the expectation that everyone clears a path for it's procession.

Furthermore, it is very popular to bring one's dog(s) to FFM and despite that the promenade is lousy with law enforcement personnel, the 20ft rule is not enforced. I'm not a stickler for abiding by the Health Code, but bicycle riders are pounced upon and I know of no law prohibiting the riding of bicycles near food.

I realize that this review may sound bitter and angry, but I think that's just how I write. I love food. Especially local food and especially when I can talk to the people who grew it. I love supporting local farmers, both financially and emotionally (by being present at markets and conversing with them). When I am surrounded by unruly youth, intoxicating adults, dogs and conspicuous consumption, I don't feel able to provide this support.

Sadly, this seems to be one of the only markets in the area available to those confined to normal work schedules.

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