Friday, November 8, 2013

La Jolla Open Aire Market Draws in Local Crowds



Just down the street from La Jolla’s sea lion attractions and main tourist destination is a quaint bazaar that attracts all kinds’ shoppers.  Farmers, artisans, artists, and boutique shops assemble a farmers market where only a parking lot and baseball field sat hours before. Only on Sunday morning do the small tents and tables assemble to show the unique wares not offered anywhere in the world. 


Hundreds of locals walk the narrow isles to find bargains on 1600’s coins, fresh fruit, original paintings, clothing, Persian carpets, WWI paraphernalia and rare geodes. Any small entrepreneur can hang a shingle for their homemade wares giving them an opportunity to reach out to local customers. Shoppers will find special prices they cannot find in any major retail outlet. 


A main attraction is the food pavilion that hosts international cuisines. Indian curry chicken, bbq burgers, spicy kabobs, bread, and homemade dips are offered for a pittance. Ringing out over the picnic style dining is local music and home cooked aroma. The vendors are friendly and love to talk about their creations; so much so that you might say “look at the time…” 


Farmer markets offer an opportunity for artists and farmers to sell their products directly to customers. These small time producers seek to raise the value of their products and create a local market presence. Following history and tradition it is one of the most convenient ways to get their products into business districts with lots of traffic. Most of the customers come every Sunday religiously. 
 

The market is doing well because they also offer a web page that helps provide an online face with a brick & mortar presence. Customers come to touch the quality. The websites gives customers some place to grab their bearings, obtain directions, and see the vendors before taking a short drive. In the spirit of helping the community all of the proceeds from the rental of stands are donated to La Jolla Elementary School.







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