Plenty of good times to be had at the Good Times Farmers Market on campus

Sundays at Valley College’s Parking Lot A features a farmers market with vendors selling food and collectibles.

By: Jesse Illanes, Managing Editor & Valley Life Editor

On the corner of Burbank Boulevard and Fulton Avenue lies the Good Times Farmers Market, happening every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. with vendors selling books, clothing, collectibles and food of all kinds. This farmers market brings community to the forefront, making Valley College a local hub for Valley Glen.

The food was the main event, as many attendees flocked to these booths. Vendors sold savory delicacies such as empanadas, pupusas and burgers, while others sold cheesecake, exotic tea and even wine, with a free mini wine tasting booth available.

“Dancing Crow Vineyard” provided a selection of French-style white and red wines, with a tasting to help customers decide on what wine is right for them. Sean Guderian, who was in charge of the booth, said the small family-owned business is based out of Northern California.

When discussing the farmers market, Guderian said, “I would say it’s one of the more unique markets, especially because there’s a lot of vendors selling things that you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find at a farmers market. I know [there’s] some great shea butter over here, even some desserts that I really have been enjoying. The tiramisu lady has some gas.”

Food and beverages weren’t the only highlight of the farmers market, as multiple vendors sold clothing, knitted plushes and collectables such as Hot Wheels cars. 

There was a book vendor named “Booked with Grungy Princess,” promoting bookstore literacy and her book club, “Bookish Babes.” This booth held a multitude of titles, including horror novels from authors like Stephen King, literary classics like “1984” and a few colorful children's books. 

The “Grungy Princess” herself, Sabrina Moreno, discussed her experience at the farmers market stating that her bestseller at the booth is a hat that says “Read Banned Books.” “It’s a good turnout here, lots of good, really humble vendors,” Moreno said regarding the turnout of the market.

Moreno also discussed the local reading and writing community, as she gives advice on starting a blog for writers to market themselves in their own niche.

Attendees Stephanie Temix and Cesar Cordova spent their second time at the farmers market as they like supporting local businesses instead of bigger corporations. 

“I’m trying to be more conscious about where I put my money into, so we’re cutting a lot of companies when it comes to groceries,” said Temix. “I try to contribute less to bigger grocery stores, so I’m buying produce from here and also personal care stuff instead of going to Target. I’m buying lotions here, body butters, and then we get to buy food which is super cool.”

Cordova added that this farmers market provides an opportunity to become closer associated with the local community. 

“We should get back to knowing our neighbors and our community, and this is probably a good stepping stone for that,” Cordova said.“People here are nice, they’re pleasant, they’re knowledgeable about what they’re selling, and I think that goes a long way. It’s not just a faceless company, it’s here, it’s ready, come grab it and go. It’s a nice change of pace.”