THE FOODSHED PROJECT
The Foodshed Project is rolling out again in 2026, primarily at the Felton Farmers’ Market. We’re also putting our heads together regarding programming for the Downtown Santa Cruz Market as it re-establishes itself in the civic district of our city center. Known events are listed below and some are still to be announced.
The Foodshed Project (FSP) is an educational program of the Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Markets and includes farmers, food artisans, community-based organizations and local chefs. Featuring at-market free, public events, FSP highlights various food issues and offers interactive mini-classes, hands-on activities, live music, face painting, playing with food and storytelling at the markets. Our goal is to illuminate and support the important work being done in our regional foodshed. All events are free, fun and family friendly.
For a decade we employed graduates of the local program FoodWhat?! which orchestrates transformation and youth empowerment through agriculture. As of the last few years we have been hiring more youth staff at large and integrating them into these events in a range of roles.
Please contact Nicole Zahm with questions or if you would like to volunteer, education@santacruzfarmersmarket.org or (831) 325-4294
What is a Food Shed?
A foodshed is a geographic region that supplies a population center with food. The term is often used to describe the movement of food from producer to consumer (Hedden,1929) considering all points along the way including labor, processing, transport, waste and so on.
2026 FOODSHED PROJECT SERIES
Felton Farmers’ Market Events
Activity stations, treats, a celebratory air and the Felton community at large make these events unique. The Santa Cruz Public Library runs a market hunt with prizes and can check out books on the spot. Live music is 2-5p. The photobooth, bicycle blender and art table run 1:30-5:30p. Face painting is 1:30-5p.
May 5
Season Opener Celebration/Free Strawberry Shortcake
The Felton Market returns and it’s time for a party! Shortcake from Beckmann’s Bakery, strawberries from Live Earth and JCG farms and whipped cream. Come out for a piece and say hello to your favorite vendors at this beautiful market in the woods. It’s time to get your weekly market shopping pattern started again!
September 8
Apple-a-Day Festival!
Apples grow all over Santa Cruz County and are delicious, hardy and loved for endless reasons. Let’s celebrate them at the market where a flurry of activities ignite your pallet, curiosity and silliness. Santa Cruz Cider joins us for apple cider pressing and tasting. Whether you are four or 94, you can have a turn at the crank. Chef Jessica Yarr of the Grove Cafe teaches a FREE workshop, 3-4p.
October 13
Pumpkin Decorating Bonanza!
Let’s welcome the fall and its fading light with free pumpkin decorating! At this annual tradition kids and adults alike will sit down to celebrate the harvest season, the coming holidays and the joy of playing with food. Rodoni pumpkins of all shapes and sizes will be dressed up with veggies, string, pipe cleaners, buttons and googly eyes. Vendors take advantage of the theme – when you are done with the market hunt seek out some pumpkin ice cream and cardamom carrot pumpkin bread!
Scotts Valley Farmers’ Market Events
TBD
