The following is a schedule of farmers markets in the grid. While Sacramento Central Farmers Market is open year round, Roosevelt Park, Fremont Park, Cesar Chavez Plaza, and Downtown Plaza Farmers Markets will be open starting May 1, 2009. The next article in this storyline will interview the owners of the farmers markets.

Sacramento Central (Southside Park) Farmers Market

Located in the State Parking Lot 8th and W Streets, the farmers market is open from 8 a.m. until 12 noon on Sunday mornings all year long.

Roosevelt Park Farmers Market

Roosevelt Park is among two farmers markets along P Street held weekly on Tuesdays. "Along the perimeter of the park, shoppers can buy vegetables, fruits, nuts, meats, herbs, flowers, baked goods and cheeses," says the California Federation of Certified Farmers' Markets website.

9th and P Streets, Tuesdays  from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 1 through October 30.

Fremont Park Farmers Market

16th and P Streets, Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 1 through October 30.

Cesar Chavez Plaza Farmers Market

10th and J Streets, Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 1 through October 30.

Downtown Plaza Farmers Market

4th and K Streets, Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 1 through October 30.

A few tips from california-grown.com:

• "Bargaining for small amounts is not well received. Bargaining for big boxes or great amounts is usually acceptable. Remember that these are the growers of the produce you are bargaining for. Do not insult them. They worked very hard to sell so cheap.
   
• Have patience with the growers. They are not polished sales people, they are just farmers. They were up late picking and irrigating and up early to load and drive the truck several hours to market.
   
• If you smile at and appreciate them, you will find them smiling back and appreciating you in return. That is what certified farmers' markets are really about. Smiles and mutual appreciation. Families growing food for families. Californians supporting California."