Sundays at the La Jolla Open Aire Market

Greg Noonan

2 weeks ago

The La Jolla Open Aire Market has been part of the neighborhood’s Sunday routine since 1998

The La Jolla Farmers’ Market has become a weekly tradition for locals and visitors looking for fun things to do in La Jolla. Regardless of the weather, you can find fresh organic local produce, exotic flowers, fresh meats and fish, artisanal cheeses, and toiletries, as well as live music and a wide variety of made-to-order cuisines from all over the world.

Fast facts: The La Jolla Open Aire Market

There’s a fixed Sunday window: The market happens every Sunday year-round, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, along Girard Avenue on the school grounds.

Proceeds go to the La Jolla Elementary School: The market runs as a school fundraiser, supporting many different programs.

What time you go will change your experience: If you want something quick, go early. If you want to hang around and take your time, go a bit later in the morning.

THE OPEN AIRE MARKET: A DEFINING CONSTANT IN LA JOLLA

In the mid- to late 1990s, La Jolla Elementary School had a problem: they didn’t have a proper library and a full-time librarian for the kids. Since funding was limited, the books were kept in a rack at the back of the auditorium.

Things changed when Sherry Ahern took matters into her own hands. A parent of two children attending the school, she suggested a weekly market to raise money. After several years of coordination with the Friends of La Jolla Elementary School (as well as Board President Sarah Agler), the San Diego Unified School District, and local volunteers, the first market—with just 14 farmers and one artisan—was held on October 25, 1998.

And you know what they say: the rest is history. Today, the La Jolla Open Aire Market continues to benefit the school, funding a wider range of programs as well as school needs (such as improvements and staffing). It has also become a meeting place for the entire community—a primetime La Jolla activity for 27 years and counting.

What to expect at the La Jolla Open Aire Market

There are plenty of things to do at the La Jolla Open Aire Market, but most of it centers around food and artisanal goods. With around 150 vendors participating each year, there’s a wide selection of fresh produce and seafood to browse. Meanwhile, food vendors prepare ready-to-eat, gourmet (often international) dishes nearby. As you decide what you’re in the mood for, you can also explore artisan stalls for handmade goods, small household items, and giftable pieces.

Live music adds to the experience. Rather than a single stage, musicians and DJ sets are spaced throughout the market so you’ll hear music as you walk the corridor. On select Sundays, extra activities take place on the school grounds, like yoga on the grass or children’s events such as face painting. These are usually announced in advance, so check the market’s Instagram for the latest schedule.

Market favorites at the La Jolla Open Aire Market

From 14 farmers to over 150 vendors, you’ll find plenty of stalls at the La Jolla Open Aire Market. Here are some of the brands you’ll find:

Petra Foods: San Diego’s source of the best baklava in America—and other Jordanian desserts—keeps a regular Sunday stall at the market.
Maison Lagonne: Ocean- and mermaid-inspired hair accessories are always offered at this stall, where a portion of the proceeds support domestic abuse survivors.
Seabreeze Craft Chocolates: This local business specializes in handcrafted, bean-to-bar chocolate and other sweet treats.
Chilaquilloco: Another Open Aire market regular, Chilaquilloco is a must-visit stall if you want chilaquiles for breakfast.
The Egg Cart: The Egg Cart brings East Coast-style sandwiches to San Diego County and the Open Aire Market every Sunday.

If you’re planning a visit, here are a few tips:

Parking: There’s no dedicated market lot, so most visitors park on nearby residential streets and walk in.
Food and seating: Many people pick up food and eat picnic-style on the school grounds—either at tables or on the grass.
Dogs: The La Jolla Open Aire Market welcomes pups. Just make sure they’re leashed. A complimentary dog-sitting service is also sometimes offered near the south end by Genter Street.

Things to do in La Jolla: Open Aire Market FAQs

Are credit cards accepted, or should I bring cash?
Most vendors take credit cards and mobile payments, but it really depends on the vendor. To be safe, bring a small amount of cash to make purchases easier, especially for lower-priced items.

Are there bathrooms available at the La Jolla Open Aire Market?
Yes. Bathrooms are available on the school grounds during market hours.

Is the La Jolla Open Aire Market easy to visit if you’re coming from out of town?
Yes. The market runs along Girard Avenue near La Jolla Elementary School, so you can plug it into your maps app and approach on foot.

Are the vendors at the La Jolla Open Aire Market the same every week?
They mostly remain consistent with core farmers and vendors, but there’s a bit of variety built in, particularly with artisan and prepared food stalls.

Fresh produce is a constant draw at the La Jolla Open Aire Market.

GET A LOCAL LENS ON LA JOLLA LIVING

If you’re evaluating homes for sale in La Jolla, the daily routines showcased in the La Jolla Open Aire Market can explain more than any listing ever could. And understanding how these routines work is where Greg Noonan & Associates has focused their practice for decades. With over 40 years of success in La Jolla real estate, they can provide the guidance you need on fit, timing, and long-term success.

Call 858.400.8770 or send us an email today to get a clearer picture of what living in La Jolla looks like day to day.