The Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market is an absolute must-do during any trip to the Central Coast.
Let’s all go to Farmers’
—Who doesn’t love a good farmers’ market? The Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market, or just “farmers” as the locals call it, however, is more than just a farmers’ market. It’s an icon, a cornerstone of the San Luis Obispo community, and an absolute must-do during any trip to the Central Coast.
This beloved Thursday evening event reimagines five blocks of downtown San Luis Obispo into a vibrant community gathering, featuring over 100 vendors serving up everything from farm-fresh produce to the region’s famous Santa Maria-style barbecue.
A feast for the senses
Farmers is a wonderful place to meet up with friends or get lost in a crowd. The aroma of tri-tip smoking over red oak wood mingles with the scent of fresh kettle corn and local delicacies, creating an irresistible sensory experience that draws thousands of visitors each week.
Local farmers display seasonal bounty from the fertile Central Coast soil— strawberries from Santa Maria, avocados from Morro Bay, and fresh citrus from inland valleys. Artists and craftspeople showcase their work alongside local musicians who provide the evening’s soundtrack, from acoustic guitar to jazz ensembles.
From cruising to community
The market’s origins tell a unique story of community problem-solving. According to Downtown SLO, in the late 1970s, downtown merchants faced an unexpected challenge when cruising culture took over Higuera street on Thursday nights, deterring shoppers from visiting local businesses. In response, the Downtown Association (now Downtown SLO) turned this challenge into an opportunity by closing the street to traffic and inviting merchants to bring their business outdoors.
What started as a creative solution 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 tourists, 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 boundary on Osos street to find the farmers’ 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.
Planning your visit
Today, visitors can experience this iconic market every Thursday evening on Higuera Street, with vendors, barbecues, and entertainment kicking off at 6 p.m.
The market runs year-round, adjusting its hours seasonally, staying 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 families 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
