Mini Temescal Canyon Farmers Market Continues to Operate

By LILY TINOCO | Reporter

Following last year’s temporary closure of the Pacific Palisades Farmers Market, which, at the time, operated at Palisades Charter High School, Palisadian Sahel Amani began organizing a mini market on Temescal Canyon Road.

This began early into the city’s imposed stay-at-home order, when there was “still a high level of fear and anxiety,” Amani shared with the Palisadian-Post in August 2020.

And it has withstood the test of time: The impromptu farmers market continues to run each week, Thursday afternoon from 3 to 5 p.m.

“I thought at the beginning of the pandemic … it would last a few weeks, a few weeks of staying in our home and everything would go back to normal,” Amani said about the COVID-19 pandemic. “So originally I thought we would do this for a few weeks … never in my wildest nightmares or dreams did I think it would last this long, but it was definitely something the community needed at the time, and time has shown that they are still appreciating it and using it. It’s working for the vendors and it’s working for the community, so I’m pleasantly surprised for sure.”

Palisadians can find fresh local produce, fruits, honey and nuts at the Thursday farmers market. Amani shared that most recently, Refillery LA has also joined the team of vendors, offering eco-friendly soaps, detergents, personal care products and more. Amani said Refillery LA is usually there once a month.

Nearly a year since she started it, Amani said the farmers market has essentially taken its own trajectory and has become a new staple in the community.

“I have helped the momentum but in terms of being there each week, there is no need for me to be there anymore … my little baby has grown up and takes care of itself now,” Amani said with a laugh. “Anytime you create something, you hope that it’s something of lasting value. I just hope that it does its purpose for as long as it’s meant to.

Amani would like to remind Palisadians to take advantage of the market and support local businesses.

“Shop local and shop seasonal, and support farmers markets and support local businesses so that we can be a strong community … a close-knit community, where we know each other and support each other to thrive,” Amani concluded.

Amani said that it’s always best to reach out to her via Nextdoor if interested in visiting the farmers market. She also posts updates there, including vendors, and if there is ever a change in time or location.