Northridge Farmers' Market

I love the Northridge Farmers' Market. Even before Chase was born, Paul & I made it a point to go a handful of times every year.  It's my favorite Farmer's Market.  I like its' mix of yummy food, produce stands, entertainment, kid friendly activities and nearby shopping.  There really are a lot of things to see, do and taste at the NFM, especially when you have a curious toddler with you.  Chase and I have gone 3 times so far this year (Paul will be joining us soon!).

   

What $20 will get you: 

• Toddler fun: Pony ride or Petting Zoo - we alternate week to week. $5 each. Note that there isn't a time limit for the petting zoo and the $5 includes food for the animals
• Food: Hawaiian pineapple Chicken bowl - our go to NFM meal that Chase and I share.  $5
• Drink: Thai Tea for mommy - I'm addicted!: $2
• Produce:  Small basket of strawberries - to take home. $2
• Souvenir: Book or small toy from Borders - we use our weekly coupon! $3-$6

What I bring (I tend to be an over packer):

• Stroller
• Diaper bag
• Baby wipes & hand sanitizer
• Spoon - most food places only supply forks
• Sippy Cup
• Snack
• Cash - most vendors only take cash
• Cell Phone
• Border's Coupon - via e-mail on my cell phone
• Camera

Other things to know

• When & Where: Wednesdays from 5pm - 9pm, in between Macy's and Borders @ the Northridge Fashion Center. This is @ the corner of Tampa Ave. and Plummer St.
• Restrooms: The closest restrooms are near the movie theater, past Borders and tucked on the side of the mall, just past H&M. Note that Borders closes their restrooms during Farmers Market hours. I don't blame them!
• Nearby: Macy's, Borders, H&M, CPK
• Seating: It's definitely hard to come by. If you can come early, you might be able to get a seat at one of the few tables they have set up in front of or behind the stage (this is in front of Borders).  But I have a feeling that people show up before the NFM even starts just to snag primo seating. Chase & I usually sit on the sidewalk (with a ton of other people). It's the perfect spot to people watch, listen to the music and relax.  
• Place to run around: Check out the courtyard behind Borders.  There's a fountain area with a decent amount of space to let the kiddies run around. You'll still want to keep a close watch as it is still crowded, just less crowded than the main Farmers' Market area. If you continue to walk down the alley way towards the movie theater, it gets even less crowded.

If you go, we hope you have fun.  Maybe we'll see you there. :)