This story originally ran on July 26, 2015. It was updated April 28, 2017.
It's that time of year: farmers market season. While many markets have become year-round affairs, offering local produce and baked goods all months, there's no question that in the summer the wealth of homegrown bounty overflows. With so many farms and ranches in the North Bay, the markets in Marin, Sonoma, and Napa are among the best in the Bay Area. They range from small, produce-focused set-ups to huge events attended by everyone in the community.
Many of the markets also accept EBT (electronic benefit transfer), California's version of food stamps. In fact, most of the markets also offer a "market match," meaning that those who spend their EBT dollars on fresh produce or meats will get extra money to spend while there.
Looking to shop fresh and local? It doesn't get more local, fresh, or tasty than many of these markets. Start with these, some of our favorites in the North Bay: from the small jewel in Healdsburg to the third-biggest market in the state right in San Rafael. If we missed your favorite on the north side of the Golden Gate, just let us know in the comments.