The first farmers' market in Santa Barbara was launched on March 24th, 1979 on the Old Santa Barbara Mission Lawn. It was among the first 20 farmers' markets in the State of California. By April 2nd the market relocated to the Santa Barbara County Bowl, and by May the farmers obtained their first official health permit, which allowed the approval of a second farmers' market for the Santa Barbara Bowl location.  In August, the market relocated to Santa Barbara High School parking lot.

            In 1983, the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers' Market, Inc. was officially founded as a Non-Profit Mutual Benefit Corporation by a small group of the participating farmers, which included local farming icons Randy Wade, Robert "BD" Dautch, and Tom Shepherd. In 1985, our flagship Saturday Santa Barbara farmers' market moved into its longstanding location in downtown Santa Barbara, known as the Cota Street Commuter Lot, where it operated for nearly 40 years.  In September of 2024 the market moved to the 00 East and West Blocks of Carrilo Street and the 900-1000 blocks of State Street, centrally located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Wide Streets and ample parking make this an ideal space for our thriving Saturday market. 

             Over the years, additional certified farmers' markets were established to support the local communities in our area, including in Carpinteria, Montecito, Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Solvang. To date, we operate 6 certified farmer's markets in these areas.