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San Luis Obispo
In the Heart of SLO: 21 Santa Rosa Street #100, San Luis Obispo • (805) 543-2172
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on Thursday nights, deterring
shoppers from visiting local busi-
nesses. In response, the Downtown
Association (now Downtown SLO)
turned this challenge into an op-
portunity by closing the street to
traffic and inviting merchants to
bring their business outdoors.
What started as a creative solu-
tion to a local problem has evolved
into one of the Central Coast's
most cherished traditions, drawing
visitors from across California and
beyond. Cal Poly students mingle
with longtime residents and tour-
ists, creating a dynamic atmosphere
that epitomizes San Luis Obispo's
friendly, small-town charm.
A local's guide to the market
Start your market experience
at the intersection of Higuera and
Nipomo streets, where the aroma
of barbecue leads you to multiple
tri-tip vendors.
As you stroll up the street, you'll
find a diverse array of prepared
foods, from authentic Thai cuisine
to wood-fired pizzas. Continue to
head towards the market’s bound-
ary on Osos street to find the farm-
Planning your visit
Today, visitors can experience
this iconic market every Thursday
evening on Higuera Street, with
vendors, barbecues, and entertain-
ment kicking off at 6 p.m.
The market runs year-round,
adjusting its hours seasonally, stay-
ing open until 9 p.m. during the
warmer months (March through
October) and closing slightly earlier
at 8:30 p.m. in winter (November
through February). Just keep in
mind that the market takes a break
on federal holidays and rainy days
(check their website by 10 a.m. PST
on market day if the weather looks
questionable).
Farmers' Market is where fami-
lies establish weekly traditions, and
where visitors can experience the
authentic charm that makes SLO
one of California's most beloved
small cities.
For more information, visit
downtownslo.com/farmers-market.
No pets except service animals are
allowed.
—Skye Pratt
ers' stands, where seasonal produce
creates a colorful display of the
region's agricultural abundance.
Live entertainment spots are
scattered throughout the market,
with the primary performance area
near the intersection of Higuera
and Morro streets.
For dessert, follow the sweet
scents to local bakeries' stands or
the popular kettle corn vendor.
Many downtown restaurants also
offer market-night specials.
Photography by Skye Pratt