Every Saturday at 4 a.m., Ed Etheridge meets his brother in Calabasas, California, to pick up a load of produce from their farm in Fresno. This will supply their business, Etheridge Farms, as they prepare to set up shop at different farmers’ markets during the week. The South Pasadena Farmers’ Market is just one of the five markets he sells at on his own, and one of the 12 that his brother’s business attends. The same is true of many other vendors at the market: each stand has a busy schedule throughout the week—often attending multiple markets in the same day—but on Thursdays, they all congregate to create the lively assortment of food, people, and culture that the South Pasadena market is known for. 

As a quintessential part of South Pasadena, the farmers’ market has attracted visitors young and old since its establishment in 1999. Since then, it has continued to act as a vibrant hub in the community and a weekly ritual for Westridge students. Each Thursday, a section of Meridian Ave and El Centro St is closed off so vendors can line the intersection next to the South Pasadena Metro Station. Only a 20-minute walk from the Westridge campus, the farmers’ market is the perfect after-school outing!

Among the many students who enjoy visiting the farmer’s market is Presley P. ’27. Although she says that her junior year schedule has been busy, she still tries to find time to go with her sister, Caitlin P. ’29. Presley admits that they stumbled upon the Farmers’ market by accident one Thursday afternoon, but now she frequents an exotic fruit stand where she often purchases passionfruit and pomegranate juice. 

However, these two items are just a few of the countless goods to be found at the farmers’ market. On top of the fresh fruits and vegetables that are brought to the market by businesses like Etheridge Farms, you can also find miscellaneous items such as flavored honey and soaps from Bill’s Bees, as well as artisan cheese from Stepladder Creamery. Fifth graders Ziya D. and Victoria Y. (also fans of the farmers market) highly recommend the honey sticks, granola, and yogurt. “It was the best yogurt I ever got,” said Victoria.

Of course, the farmers’ market is arguably most well known for the food stands that greet visitors with their mouth-watering aromas upon entering the vicinity. With many businesses having been around for over 10 years, there are a plethora of tried-and-true options perfect for an after-school snack or quick dinner. From pizza to spam musubi and a handful of vegan options, there’s something for everyone to eat. Sydney P. ’26 recommends the corn-on-the-cob from California Corn, which Presley also enjoys, in addition to the crêpes from Stuffed Crepes. 

While the South Pasadena Farmers’ Market is popular for the goods being sold, part of what makes it such a treasured destination is the culture. “Here, what’s special is the people, the community. They come here and basically it’s like family,” said vendor Alexander Castillo, expressing a sentiment shared by many others. Yaomautzin Gomez, who helps his aunt operate their family’s fruit stand every week, also appreciates the culture. Their business, Gerwig Avocado Ranch, attends nearly 15 other markets like many other sellers, but to him, the South Pasadena Farmers’ Market is unique.“I feel like the people here, they’re much more friendly and much more open as well. You meet a variety of people. I’ve met so many compared to other markets that I do.”

In addition to the people who come and go, the long histories of many vendors have also allowed them to forge connections with their customers. Edwin Rosales, who works at Stuffed Crepes, noted, “We have a lot of regular customers here. I’ve known them for a long time. Some of their kids, they grew up already: they’re teenagers now, and they still come back.”

One of these loyal visitors to the market is Natalia Perzyna, a South Pasadena local. For her, the farmers’ market has been part of her routine since she was in high school. In particular, she and her friends adored the lemonades from Deisy’s Tasty Food, a vendor that is still popular today. Even as an adult, she still finds herself returning each week: “Now that I live nearby, it’s really easy for me to walk here and grab some groceries, grab some flowers, and then walk home, so I love doing that.” 

With such a rich history and vibrant community, it’s no surprise that the South Pasadena Farmers’ Market remains a staple in Westridge culture and South Pasadena. From regulars to newcomers alike, those who step foot into the market can not only expect to find delicious food and fresh produce, but a place that brings people together week after week.