5 Essential Things To Know About The Modesto Certified Farmers Market (2025-2026 Season Update)

The Modesto Certified Farmers Market (MCFM) is more than just a place to buy fresh produce; it is a vibrant cornerstone of the Central Valley community, connecting residents directly to Stanislaus County agriculture. As of December 23, 2025, the market is typically winding down its main season, often transitioning into specialized Holiday Markets that run until the third Saturday of December, but preparations for the highly anticipated 2026 season are already underway. This definitive guide provides the most current details on the market's location, operating hours, financial assistance programs, and the specific vendors and products that make the MCFM a regional must-visit destination. This market has been a downtown Modesto tradition for over 30 years, serving as the premiere public outlet for farm-fresh foods, delicious prepared meals, and unique artisan goods. It is a vital platform for local farmers to share their certified, high-quality products directly with consumers, ensuring every dollar spent goes back into supporting the region's robust agricultural economy.

The 2025-2026 Season: Location, Hours, and Key Dates

The Modesto Certified Farmers Market operates on a seasonal schedule, generally running from early May through mid-December, capturing the best of the Central Valley’s harvest. Planning your visit around the specific days and times is crucial for getting the best selection of goods.

Essential Market Logistics

The MCFM prides itself on being a truly certified farmers market, meaning the produce sold is grown directly by the farmer, not a reseller. This commitment to authenticity ensures the highest quality fresh produce for all patrons.

• Location: The market is conveniently located in downtown Modesto on 16th Street, situated between H Street and I Streets. This prime spot is right alongside the Stanislaus County Library, making it accessible and easy to find.
• Main Season Operating Days: The market runs on both Thursdays and Saturdays during its primary season.
• Main Season Operating Hours: While hours can vary slightly, the general operating time is from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Some sources indicate an earlier start time of 7:00 AM, especially for Saturdays in the warmer months, so arriving early is always recommended for the best selection.
• Seasonal Start/End: The season typically begins on the first Saturday in May and runs until the third Saturday in December, which often features special Holiday Markets.

Street parking is generally available nearby, though it is wise to arrive early, particularly on busy Saturday mornings, to secure a convenient spot for your visit to this local hub.

Beyond Produce: Artisan Goods, Baked Delights, and Food Programs

While the market's core focus is on fresh, certified produce, the MCFM has evolved into a comprehensive public market that supports a wide array of local enterprises. The market is a magnet for foodies, featuring prepared foods, unique artisan goods, and crucial financial assistance programs that increase food access for the community.

Must-Visit Vendors and Artisan Entities

The vendor lineup changes throughout the year, but several types of stalls are consistently popular, offering products that go beyond the typical fruit and vegetable stand.

• Baked Goods: Vendors like Bloomingcamp Ranch are often featured, known for their irresistible Sweet Bread, Corn Bread, Pastries, Pies, and various flavors of Biscotti (including Almond, Coffee, Butter, and Anise).
• Prepared Foods: Visitors can find delicious food vendors offering ready-to-eat meals, making the market a perfect spot for a weekend breakfast or lunch. Offerings range from gourmet coffee to local culinary specialties.
• Artisan Goods: Look for unique artisan goods, crafts, and other non-food items that showcase the creative talent of the Modesto area. This provides a great opportunity to purchase unique gifts and support local craftspeople.
• Meat and Dairy: Beyond fruits and vegetables, the market often features local meat and dairy producers, allowing patrons to source every part of their meal from Stanislaus County farms.

Financial Assistance Programs: Making Fresh Food Accessible

A critical component of the Modesto Certified Farmers Market is its commitment to food equity. The market actively participates in financial assistance programs, ensuring that fresh, healthy, local food is available to all members of the community. The market provides facilities for Financial Assistance Programs, which typically include: * EBT/CalFresh: Allowing recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to use their benefits to purchase fresh food. * Market Match/WIC: These programs often provide matching funds for EBT usage, effectively doubling a customer's purchasing power for fresh produce, a huge benefit to local families and the agricultural economy. Checking the official MCFM website or social media pages is recommended for the latest details on which programs are currently active and how to utilize them.

The Heart of Stanislaus County Agriculture: What’s In Season Now

Stanislaus County is one of the most agriculturally productive regions in the world, and the Modesto Certified Farmers Market is the best place to experience the seasonal bounty of the Central Valley. The produce available changes dramatically from the peak summer months to the late fall and early winter.

Seasonal Produce Highlights

Understanding the agricultural cycle helps patrons know what to expect and when to visit for their favorite local produce.

Late Fall/Early Winter (November – December 2025):

As the season wraps up, the market still offers a diverse selection of hardier crops. This is the ideal time to stock up on winter staples, including:

• Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, and turnips, which thrive in cooler soil.
• Winter Greens: Kale, chard, and other leafy greens.
• Citrus: The beginning of the citrus season brings fresh oranges, mandarins, and lemons.
• Storage Crops: Potatoes, onions, and winter squash.
• Apples: Later-season apple varieties perfect for baking and eating.

Spring/Summer Peak (May – October 2026):

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The market is at its most vibrant during the warmer months, offering the iconic fruits and vegetables of the Central Valley. Entities like Soria's Produce, a local favorite, bring in a spectacular variety.

• Berries and Melons: Cherries, strawberries, and various melons.
• Summer Staples: Vine-ripened tomatoes, squash, and corn.
• Stone Fruit: Peaches, nectarines, and plums—a signature of California agriculture.

The market’s commitment to certified local produce ensures that everything you purchase is at its peak freshness, having traveled only a short distance from the farm to your basket. This dedication to "Stanislaus Grown" products supports sustainable farming practices and strengthens the local food system, making the Modesto Certified Farmers Market an essential weekly stop for every community member.

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