Midtown Farmers Market: From Stall to Storefront
January 16th, 2026
What began in 2012 with just a handful of vendors in a parking lot has grown into a six-block market welcoming more than 5,000 visitors and nearly 300 vendors every Saturday throughout the year. The Midtown Farmers Market is now more than a weekly Saturday tradition and serves as a powerful economic engine for small business growth in Sacramento. For the second year in a row, the market was named #1 Farmers Market in California, #1 in the Southwest, and #3 in the nation by the American Farmland Trust’s 17th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration, spotlighting the market’s exceptional scale and impact in the region. This growth has translated to meaningful community outcomes, including more than 18,000 EBT transactions processed since 2017 and an estimated $17.5 million in local economic impact.
The market serves as a community hub, celebrating the fresh farmers and artisan makers of the region. Among the market’s most inspiring success stories are the remarkable vendors who have transitioned from pop-up stalls each Saturday to permanent storefronts within Sacramento. From unique crafts and sustainable products to internationally inspired cuisine and coffee, there have been a wave of market vendors who have launched their grassroots businesses at the Midtown Farmers Market before expanding to physical spaces in recent years. These succss stories spotlight how the market continues to nurture diverse entrepreneurs and further emphasizes how the market cultivates growth for local small businesses.
The journey from market stall to storefront embodies the community-centric spirit that makes Midtown a vibrant hub for creativity and highlights how the award-winning market is a proven launchpad for entrepreneurs and local businesses. The market’s curated approach ensures a healthy product mix while creating equitable opportunities for all of the vendors. Read more below to learn about the inspiring local entrepreneurs who have launched Sacramento storefronts:
Balance Me Out first gained attention at the Midtown Farmers Market with culinary offerings centered on intention and balance. The market provided a platform to test ideas, refine products, and build a dedicated customer base throughout Sacramento. In 2025, the business transitioned into a permanent retail space in Midtown on 24th Street with Balance Coffee Shop. Deeply ingrained with the local community, Balance Coffee Shop supports local nonprofits, develops a drink of the month, and supports local artists in the shop with rotating art and music.
Ecojoyous launched at the Midtown Farmers Market with a mission rooted in sustainability and mindful living. Regular market participation helped the brand grow visibility and trust within the community. In 2025, the small business opened a brick-and-mortar location on L street in Sacramento to further its impact.
Faria Bakery began as a beloved farmers market vendor, drawing long lines for its thoughtfully crafted breads and pastries. Its commitment to quality and community quickly earned a loyal following at the Midtown Farmers Market. In 2022, Faria Bakery expanded into a physical location on Broadway, solidifying its place in Sacramento’s food scene.
FIG Mobile began as a market vendor bringing accessible services directly to the community. The Midtown Farmers Market allowed the business to grow through face-to-face engagement and consistent demand. In 2025, the boutique clothing retailer established a permanent location as a collaborative with Ecojoyous to better serve its customers.
Golden Hour started as a Midtown Farmers Market vendor offering carefully curated products that resonated with Midtown shoppers. The business grew steadily through direct customer relationships and strong brand identity. In 2024, the market vendor opened a storefront location on 36th Street in Sacramento, expanding its reach beyond the Saturday market.
Maria’s Paella became a market favorite by sharing bold flavors and traditional cooking at the Midtown Farmers Market. Its vibrant presence and community appeal fueled steady growth. In 2025, the beloved culinary vendor opened a physical location on 16th Street to bring its signature dishes to a permanent home in Sacramento.
Meza California launched at the Midtown Farmers Market with a fresh approach and was born from a deep sense of hospitality, rooted in Arabic and Mexican culture and community. The market provided an ideal environment to grow brand awareness and customer loyalty. In 2025, the popular culinary vendor added a storefront space, marking a new spot for locals to enjoy the cuisine.
Nana’s Crafts started at the Midtown Farmers Market showcasing handmade goods with heart and personality. The market setting helped the business build strong relationships with returning customers. In 2025, the craft vendor expanded into a storefront in Sacramento.
Qisa Coffee
Rooted in tradition and fueled by dreams, Qisa Coffee captures the authentic taste of Peshawar through the richness of high-quality coffee beans. Every cup tells a story where heritage meets hospitality. After a successful run at the Midtown Farmers Market, the vendor opened a brick-and-mortar location on Castro Way in Sacramento.