Exploring LA's Farmer's Markets

Even though it it warm here in Los Angeles year-round, now that spring is officially here, we are looking forward to exploring more of the city's fresh farmer's markets. If you have never visited a farmer's market in LA or usually go to the same one, try out some of these other markets if you have the chance. All of these farmer's markets, courtesy of Discover Los Angeles, offer a fresh fruit and veggie variety!

THE ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET
If you only have time to visit one farmers market, this one should be it. With more than 100 restaurants, shops and food vendors, this Los Angeles institution has been offering fresh produce, specialty foods and authentic ethnic cuisine to Los Angeles visitors and locals for nearly 80 years.  Check out their interactive directory to plan your shopping list.

Third and Fairfax, www.farmersmarketla.com, Mon.–Fri.: 9 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat.: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun.: 10 a.m.– 7 p.m.

LARCHMONT FARMERS MARKET
What this quaint market lacks in size, it makes up for in quality. Fill your basket with ripe, juicy tomatoes; generous bundles of sweet basil; flavored olive oils; and fragrant, hand-poured soy candles.

209 N. Larchmont Blvd., Lot #694, Sun.: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

HOLLYWOOD FARMERS MARKET
Before heading to the Walk of Fame, experience Hollywood like a local by walking through its vibrant farmers market. Whether you’re stocking up on groceries or filling up on pre-prepared foods, this centrally located gathering has everything a hungry shopper could crave. Tip back freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, nibble on grilled sweet corn on the cob, and sip mouthwatering watermelon lemonade while meandering through the aisles of produce and meat stands.

Ivar and Selma Ave., between Hollywood and Sunset Blvd., Sundays: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

SANTA MONICA FARMERS MARKETSHead to Santa Monica, where three days a week various farmers markets tout entertainment for the whole family, including a petting zoo, pony rides, live music and plenty of hot food stands. Take advantage of the free parking or free bike valet, and get ready for an afternoon of entertainment, picnicking and shopping near the ocean. Watch for special events like cooking demonstrations, "ask the dietician" sessions and appearances by local chefs.

City of Santa Monica Farmers Markets, Arizona Ave. & Fourth St., Wed.: 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; 2200 Virginia Ave., Sat.: 8 a.m.–1 p.m.; 2640 Main St., Sun.: 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

BRENTWOOD VILLAGE FARMERS MARKETSure, this weekend gathering has all the hallmarks of other neighborhood farmers markets, but it also boasts an impressive selection of handmade jewelry. While you’re deciding on something sparkly to buy, munch on a treat from the Great Harvest Bread Company, or opt for a pork and cheese-filled pupusa from a mom-and-pop stand.

741 S. Gretna Green Way, Sun.: 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

VENICE FARMERS MARKETThe Friday market in Venice is on the small side, but the vendors here are known for being super friendly. Don't be surprised if you end up hearing all about the potato grower's special blend of soil or if you snag a from-memory recipe for grilled zucchini salad. The market comes with a dose of Venice's famous bohemian vibe — everything is compostable or recyclable, there's plenty of bicycle parking and it's not too hard to find a shot of wheatgrass.

Venice Blvd. & Venice Way, www.venicefarmersmarket.com, Fri.: 7 a.m.–11 a.m.

CENTURY CITY FARMERS MARKET
For a mid-week jaunt through an open-air market, head over to this outdoor event, where shoppers line up for Hawaiian barbecue chicken, made-to-order empanadas and a variety of flavored hummus and pitas.

1800 Avenue of the Stars, Thurs.: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

ECHO PARK FARMERS MARKET
This mellow market might skimp on the crafts and jewelry booths, but it has plenty of fresh produce to make up for it. Stock up on groceries for the weekend, such as flavorful heirloom tomatoes, Japanese cucumbers, massive avocados, free-range poultry and herbed goat cheese.

1125 Logan St., Fri.: 3 p.m.–7 p.m.

BEVERLY HILLS FARMERS MARKET
This mid-size market boasts easy parking, live music, a petting zoo, and plenty of ready-to-eat staples like kettle corn, made-to-order crepes, tamales and burritos. Before leaving, try the ruby-red strawberries at Harry’s Berries and the artisanal pretzels rolls from Rockenwagner Bakery.

9300 Block of Civic Center Dr., Beverly Hills, Sun.: 9 a.m.–1 p.m., http://www.beverlyhills.org/exploring/farmersmarket/

STUDIO CITY FARMERS MARKET
This Sunday market is a favorite among the toddler set — it offers pony rides, a petting zoo, a train ride and a bouncy slide, in addition to plenty of locally farmed produce. Epicureans won't be disappointed, either. Vendors sell homemade sauces, pastries and preserves, and one will even sharpen your favorite kitchen knives.

Ventura Place between Laurel Canyon Blvd. and Radford Ave., Studio City, Sun.: 8 a.m.–2 p.m.,www.studiocityfarmersmarket.com

ENCINO FARMERS MARKET
During peak summer months, dozens of regional growers converge at this farmers market in the Valley, where you'll find everything from locally made honey to local eggs, meat and cheese. Oh, and endless piles of colorful, fragrant fruits and vegetables.

17400 Victory Blvd, Encino, Sun.: 8 a.m.–1 p.m., www.localharvest.org

DOWNTOWN LA FARMERS MARKETBecause this market features just as much delicious, ready-to-eat street food as it does produce, it's a favorite among Downtown workers, who fill up for lunch on Thai barbecue chicken, falafal wraps, roasted nuts and authentic tamales, and then take home local veggies and artisan bread for dinner.

Bank of America Plaza, 333 S. Hope St., Fri.: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Try These Tricks in Your Living Room

"IMG_1016" by Shawn Cornelius is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Holiday decorating usually leads to rearranging some furniture, which doesn’t sound like a lot of fun on the surface. However, this allows you the opportunity to experiment with the layout of the room and its furniture. Or maybe you’ve been looking for an excuse to switch things around, so you should take advantage of the opportunity! Try these tips from Apartment Therapy, and who knows, you may love your new layout so much that you decide to keep the Christmas tree up year-round!  

1. If you have room, pulling your furniture away from the wall can make conversational groupings seem cozier, and the room seem a lot more spacious.

2. Try replacing your coffee table with a smaller table, big enough to hold a book and a few drinks, that can move around the room. The space freed up by the coffee table will make your living room seem a lot bigger.

3. A bookcase behind the sofa is a great way to add a little texture — and a little storage — to your living room. (Naturally, things you don't use as much go directly behind the couch.)

4. Mixing old and new pieces is a great way to add energy to any room.

5. Balance heavier pieces with lighter ones to keep a space from feeling too clunky. The lighter pieces in this room — the coffee and side tables — provide a nice counterpoint the sofa and dresser.

6. Hang a picture ledge above your sofa for a statement-y look. If you get tired of your current pieces, you can easily switch them out.

7. Color is the key to mixing a lot of things together in a harmonious way. There's a lot going on in this living room, but the preponderance of white keeps all the different elements from becoming too overwhelming.

8. Every room can benefit from a touch of gold.

9. Keeping everything low (including the art) is a great trick to make a room look bigger.

10. Paired chairs don't have to match — try mixing two pieces from a similar era with different shapes.

11. When in doubt, add a little bit of black.