La Jolla Open Aire Market: Your complete guide to La Jolla’s best Sunday market

Last Updated on July 8, 2026

So much more than a La Jolla farmers market, the Open Aire Market brings the community together weekly for food, produce, art and more.

Living outdoors in San Diego is illustrated by the number of farmers markets and the thousands who attend, and it’s no different in La Jolla, where the Open Aire Market draws the community in every Sunday morning for local flavor, coastal charm, and community connection.

Walk through the stalls with us using this definitive guide, and experience the best of the La Jolla Open Aire Market:

About the La Jolla Open Aire Market

The Open Aire Market began in 1998, after La Jolla Elementary School parent Sherry Ahern planted the idea to have a market to help fund a library and librarian for the school.

The market opened with 14 farmers and one artisan, and has grown substantially since, now hosting 140 vendors.

You’ll find artisans and services lined up along Girard Avenue and at the entrance to the market; prepared food vendors and take-home treats next; dozens of local farmers and their produce beyond that, and tables and canopies on the field for gathering.

All proceeds from the market benefit La Jolla Elementary School, funding school improvements and enrichment programs and even additional teachers to lower class sizes.

The La Jolla Open Aire Market has become a touchstone of community culture in its nearly 27 years, providing a place for meetups and social activity, along with gathering the best vendors around for anyone to enjoy.

When and where is the La Jolla Open Aire Market?

The Open Aire farmers market runs from 9 am to 1 pm every Sunday, rain or shine, except Easter Sunday (and when Christmas Day is a Sunday).

You’ll find the La Jolla Open Aire Market on the campus of La Jolla Elementary School, on Girard Avenue at Genter Street. Vendors line the LJES sidewalk on Girard and spread across the school’s parking lot, asphalt and field.

Once you’ve navigated to near Girard Avenue and Genter Street, your best bet is to park wherever you can. Street parking is not time-limited on Sundays in La Jolla, though if you are weary of looking, click for our blog of La Jolla parking tips.

If you’ve parked a distance away, call or text the Open Aire folks at (858) 454-1699 they will provide you with a complimentary ride in market mascot and golf cart “Cherry.”

What you’ll find at the La Jolla Open Aire Market

Fresh produce and local farms

Every week, you’ll find dozens of certified farmers laying out colorful, fresh produce and consumables in dazzling displays of seasonal flavors.

We love the creamy richness of Rancho de los Suenos’ Temecula avocados ranch; Sky Valley’s sweet, decadent dates; the tomatoes of Valdivia Farms in Carlsbad; and the meats and eggs from Lake Elsinore’s Da-Le Ranch.

You’ll also love shopping the honey, macadamia nuts and multitude of other organic, high-quality pantry items at the La Jolla farmers market.

Artisanal foods and unique products

Trust the Open Aire Market to supply you with the best in baked goods, cheeses, jams and so much more.

Take home breads from Breadbar LA and San Diego’s own Swells Sourdough Bakery; line up for a popular Mexican item from Belinda’s Familia food truck; post a pic of a Bom Bom Bakehouse cream-filled pastry or churro box before devouring; grab a plate of MyPozole’s “poz nachos” or a House of Bao dumpling dish and settle in for a tasty meal of the best street food around.

Don’t be shy in trying out La Jolla Open Aire Market’s many other food vendors, who offer trendy products like pickle-related snacks and Dubai chocolate treats along with premium, hard-to-find scores on salmon jerky, kombucha, bone broth, supplements and vegan specialties.

Looking for scrumptious flavor combinations in stuffed hash browns, avocado toast creations or crepes? You’re covered here.

Local art, crafts, flowers, fashion and services

La Jolla’s Open Aire Market features crave-worthy artisanal goods, clothing and home decor items you won’t find anywhere else. From candles and fresh flowers bursting with color to pet products, rugs and the latest trends in jewelry, you’ll be hard-pressed to leave empty-handed.

Check out Line Street Studio’s nature-inspired offerings, grab a bouquet from Hidalgo Flowers, browse Street Smart Bookstore‘s secondhand collection, or sign on for a service such as a massage, monthly knife-sharpening or a meet-and-greet with local leaders.

Live music and family-friendly fun

Every week, you’ll find local musicians sprinkled throughout the La Jolla Open Aire Market, accompanying your browsing with something to get your toes tapping.

The market also hosts the “Search for Tommy Tomato” – find this plush, fruity “mascot” hiding among the vendors, and win a prize at the Open Aire information booth.

On the field, you’ll find kid-friendly activities and space to roam; children are also free to explore the school’s smaller play structure during the market’s open hours.

Why locals and visitors love the La Jolla Open Aire Market

It’s easy to make a trip to the La Jolla farmers market a weekly venture, as so many do to support local businesses and socialize with other members of the community. It’s the perfect bag of laidback Sunday coastal vibes with fresh, seasonal and sustainable shopping.

Three times a year, the La Jolla Open Air Market hosts special versions: The Spring Fling; Harvest Festival; and Winter Carnival. Each features entertainment like a visit with Santa, rock climbing wall, face painting, Easter egg hunt, raffles and more, depending on the season.

Insider tips for visiting the La Jolla Open Aire Market

The Open Aire Market starts at 9 am, and the earlier you go, the better selection you’ll have of parking spots (and the goodies you want, as some sell out!). There will still be plenty to look through later, however.

Most merchants offer bags and accept wireless payment, though bringing your own bag is always appreciated.

On your way in, you may want to stop at Il Giardino di Lilli or Bistro du Marche for a coffee in hand as you stroll, or grab an outdoor table at those places if you want to sit a little afterwards.

Nearby extensions for your La Jolla Open Aire Market day

Your La Jolla adventure doesn’t have to end after the market! After your shop, keep walking north on Girard Avenue to explore the shops or grab a picturesque brunch.

Take a self-guided Murals of La Jolla tour as you stroll to experience public art at its finest and most provocative.

Continue on to the shoreline, wandering the sand at The Children’s Pool and La Jolla Cove, where La Jolla truly shines.

Check out our blogs like this one to read more on how to make the most of your day in La Jolla.