Hobnobbing at Farmers Markets

I’m often surprised by the degree to which socializing, as it pertains to LGBT travelers, is so often defined exclusively by bars and nightclubs. Sonoma County has a few gay hangouts (mostly in the Russian River), and plenty of other mixed lounges and nightspots, and I’m definitely a fan of such establishments. But I also like to remind visitors that if you’re aim is to meet local or visiting gay folks, venues for doing so are varied and plentiful, especially in a place like Sonoma County.

With that in mind, a wonderful way to people-watch and hobnob in this county so rich with local produce and gourmet goods is visiting some of the excellent farmers markets in the area. There are dozens of great ones throughout the area, and I like to consult the handy magazine and website run by Sonoma County Farm Trails for a full rundown (not to mention plenty of advice on local farms that welcome visitors).

Here are two particular favorites:

From late May through early September, on Wednesday nights from 5 until 8:30, the Santa Rosa Downtown Market is a lively event drawing plenty of foodies. It takes place along 4th Street, between Mendocino Avenue and E Street, and there’s live music, cooking demos by local chefs, and dozens of great vendors. As many as 8,000 fans of farmers markets and great local cuisine show up at these spirited festivals.

Nearby, the Windsor Certified Farmers Market has one of the longest seasons of any in the area. There are actually two events – on Sunday mornings (10 until 1:30), there’s a market from early May through late November. Additionally, the Thursday Night Market comes to the same venue – the Town Green in downtown Windsor – from 5 until 8 pm, mid-June through late August. Again, these markets offer more than just great market shopping – there’s live, local beers and wines are served, and 10 area restaurants (from Nellie’s Oysters to Johnny Garlics) serve prepared good to go. You can also browse the wares of several artisans and crafts-makers.

You’ll find other seasonal farmers markets in Cotati, Healdsburg, Occidental, and Petaluma.  You can find a full listing of farmers markets in Sonoma County here.