The streets of downtown Lodi came alive Thursday night as the Lodi Certified Farmers Market kicked off its 2025 season, offering visitors a mix of local produce, small business vendors and community connection.
Running weekly from May 15 through August 28, the market is hosted by the Lodi Chamber of Commerce and regularly draws thousands of visitors to the heart of the city. Guests can enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, handcrafted goods, hot food, drinks and live music in the beer and cider garden on School Street.
“I’m celebrating my birthday here, but we come for the small-town feel,” said Jessica Strootman, a regular attendee. “It’s a great way to see people we don’t normally run into during the week.”
For first-time vendor Dean Duivenvoorden of Dying Breed Brewing, the market is also a business opportunity. “Everyone’s been super friendly,” he said. “It’s a chance to meet people, get out of the house and show off what we make.”
Visitors say the event showcases more than just food and drink, it represents the values of Lodi’s agricultural community.
“Events like this remind us how important it is to support our neighbors,” said Troy Amaite, another attendee. “It brings people together and gives back to the growers and small businesses that keep this town going.”
The market is open Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m. throughout the summer, with more than 65 vendors participating.