Nestled in the heart of Northern California’s agricultural paradise, the Jolly Green Giant Market at 6719 Eastside Rd, Anderson, California 96007 has become my go-to weekend destination for fresh produce, artisan crafts, and genuine community connection. From the moment I pulled into the spacious parking lot on my first Saturday morning visit, I knew I’d discovered something special. This isn’t just another market β it’s a celebration of Northern California’s rich farming heritage, talented artisans, and the warm hospitality that defines small-town California living. Spend the weekend at the Old Sutter Creek Flea Market or discover antiques at the Williams Flea Market.
Table of Contents
Toggleπ Location & Contact Information
Jolly Green Giant Market
π 6719 Eastside Rd, Anderson, CA 96007
π (530) 360-1616
ποΈ Market Schedule
| Day | Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed β |
| Tuesday | Closed β |
| Wednesday | Closed β |
| Thursday | Closed β |
| Friday | Closed β |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM β |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM β |
Peak Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM π
Best Time to Visit: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM for first pick of produce! π
π Getting There: Parking & Transportation
Free Parking π ΏοΈ
One of the best features of the Jolly Green Giant Market is the completely free, ample parking right on-site! No meters, no fees, no stress.
| Parking Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | FREE! π |
| Capacity | 100+ spaces |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly spots available βΏ |
| RV Parking | Available in designated area π |
| Organization | Well-marked rows for easy navigation |
Pro Tip: Arrive by 8:15 AM on Saturdays for the best parking spots near the entrance! Early birds get the easiest access to those fresh veggies! π₯
π Alternative Transportation
| Method | Details | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Vehicle | Most convenient option | Everyone! π |
| Uber/Lyft | Available in Anderson area | Visitors without cars π± |
| Local Taxi | Call ahead for pickup | Reliable service π |
| Bicycle | Bike racks available | Eco-conscious locals π΄ |
Public Transit Note: Direct public transportation to Eastside Road is limited, but the market’s accessibility and free parking make driving the easiest option for most visitors.
βΏ Accessibility Features
The Jolly Green Giant Market prioritizes accessibility for all visitors:
- Wheelchair-friendly pathways throughout
- Accessible parking spots near entrance
- Flat, paved surfaces between vendor stalls
- Accessible restroom facilities
- Vendor tables at varying heights
π° Admission & Entry
Fantastic news! π The Jolly Green Giant Market is 100% FREE to enter. No tickets, no admission fees, no membership required. Just show up and start exploring! This open-door policy embodies the market’s commitment to community accessibility and inclusivity.
π Featured Vendors You Can’t Miss
The Jolly Green Giant Market carefully curates its vendor lineup to showcase the best of Northern California’s agricultural and artisan communities. Here are the standouts:
π― Bountiful Honey Co.
Local Wildflower Honey & Beeswax Products
This is hands-down my favorite honey vendor in all of Northern California! Bountiful Honey Co. sources from local apiaries throughout Shasta County, producing wildflower honey that’s incredibly rich, flavorful, and golden. Beyond honey, they offer:
- Raw honeycomb sections π
- Beeswax candles with natural scents
- Honey sticks in various flavors
- Propolis and royal jelly products
- Beeswax wraps for eco-friendly food storage
The owner is passionate about sustainable beekeeping and loves sharing knowledge about pollinator conservation. Every jar tells a story of the Northern California landscape!
π₯ Fresh Roots Organic Farm
Seasonal Organic Produce
If you care about where your food comes from, Fresh Roots is your destination. This certified organic farm brings whatever’s in season, freshly picked that morning:
Spring Offerings: πΈ
- Asparagus, strawberries, leafy greens, radishes, peas
Summer Bounty: βοΈ
- Heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, peppers, zucchini, berries
Fall Harvest: π
- Pumpkins, squash, apples, root vegetables, Brussels sprouts
Winter Selection: βοΈ
- Citrus, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, winter squash
The produce tastes incredible β you can literally taste the difference between truly fresh, organic vegetables and supermarket alternatives!
π₯ Sweet Valley Bakery
Artisan Bread & Handmade Pastries
The aroma of Sweet Valley Bakery’s fresh-baked goods draws you in from across the market! Their artisan breads are made using traditional techniques with locally-sourced ingredients:
- Sourdough loaves (various flavors)
- Whole grain and seeded breads
- Croissants and Danish pastries
- Seasonal fruit pies
- Gluten-free options
- Custom cakes (order ahead!)
Must-Try: The cinnamon rolls are legendary β they sell out by 10 AM most weekends! π₯
π¨ Anderson Artisans Craft Collective
Handmade Crafts & Artistic Creations
This collective represents multiple local artists and craftspeople, offering an ever-changing selection of unique items:
- Hand-forged metalwork and garden art
- Handcrafted jewelry (sterling silver, gemstones)
- Pottery and ceramic pieces
- Hand-woven textiles and scarves
- Reclaimed wood furniture and dΓ©cor
- Original paintings and prints
- Leather goods
Each piece is one-of-a-kind, making this the perfect spot for gifts or treating yourself to something special that you won’t find anywhere else!
π§ Valley View Cheese & Dairy
Fresh Dairy Products from Local Farms
Supporting local dairy farmers, this vendor offers:
- Fresh cow and goat cheeses
- Raw milk (when available)
- Butter and cream
- Yogurt and kefir
- Aged artisan cheeses
πΏ Green Thumb Nursery
Plants, Herbs & Garden Supplies
For gardening enthusiasts:
- Organic vegetable starts
- Culinary herb plants
- Native California plants
- Succulents and houseplants
- Organic soil amendments and fertilizers
- Heirloom seeds
π¨ Where to Stay: Nearby Accommodations
Planning an Anderson weekend getaway? Here are the best hotels near the market:
Accommodation Options
| Hotel | Distance | Price Range | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Western Palm Court Inn & Suites | 4 miles (8 min) | $$ | Pet owners | Pet-friendly, pool, free breakfast πΎ |
| Travelodge by Wyndham Redding | 12 miles (15 min) | $ | Budget travelers | Free breakfast, near I-5 π΅ |
| Holiday Inn Express Redding North | 10 miles (12 min) | $$ | Families | Modern rooms, pool, fitness center π¨βπ©βπ§ |
| Comfort Inn Anderson | 5 miles (9 min) | $$ | Business travelers | Work desk, WiFi, meeting space πΌ |
Vacation Rentals & Camping ποΈ
- Airbnb Options: Several charming homes and cabins in Anderson area
- Whiskeytown National Recreation Area: Camping available 20 minutes away
- RV Parks: Multiple RV-friendly parks within 10 miles
πΈ Instagram-Worthy Photo Opportunities
The Jolly Green Giant Market is a photographer’s paradise! Here are the best spots for capturing that perfect shot:
π Fresh Produce Displays
The colorful arrangements at Fresh Roots Organic Farm are absolutely stunning! Think rainbow stacks of heirloom tomatoes, pyramids of golden corn, and vibrant pepper displays. The natural colors pop beautifully in morning light.
π― Honey & Wildflower Setup
Bountiful Honey Co. creates magazine-worthy displays with their golden honey jars surrounded by fresh wildflower bouquets. The amber tones and natural elements make for gorgeous close-up shots.
π¨ Artisan Craft Backdrops
The Anderson Artisans Craft Collective’s rustic booths feature reclaimed wood panels, perfect for showcasing handmade jewelry and crafts. The textures and earthy tones create an authentic, Pinterest-worthy aesthetic.
π Golden Hour Magic
Early morning light (8:00-9:30 AM) filtering through the open-air market tents creates a natural, golden glow. Perfect for candid shots of vendor-customer interactions and atmospheric market scenes.
π₯ Bakery Close-Ups
Sweet Valley Bakery’s beautifully arranged pastries and artisan breads make for mouth-watering food photography. Those crusty sourdough loaves and flaky croissants photograph like a dream!
π» Seasonal DΓ©cor
Throughout the year, the market features seasonal decorations β pumpkins in fall, flowers in spring, holiday wreaths in winter β providing fresh backdrops for every visit.
Photography Tips: π·
- Visit during golden hour for the best natural lighting
- Ask vendor permission before photographing their products
- Capture the market’s community atmosphere with candid shots
- Don’t forget detail shots of produce textures and colors
- Tag @jollygreenmarket (check for official social media handles)
Find more family-friendly markets on the California Flea Markets.
π‘ Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
β° Timing Strategy
| Arrival Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00-8:30 AM | First pick of produce, best parking, cooler temps | Need to wake up early |
| 9:00-11:00 AM | Full market energy, all vendors open | Moderate crowds |
| 11:00 AM-1:00 PM | Peak social atmosphere | Picked-over produce, parking challenging |
| 1:00-3:00 PM | Potential deals as vendors want to sell out | Limited selection remaining |
My Recommendation: Arrive at 8:15 AM for the perfect balance! β°
π What to Bring
Essential Items: β
- Reusable shopping bags (most vendors don’t provide bags)
- Cash in small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20)
- Cooler with ice packs for perishables
- Sunscreen and hat (outdoor market!)
- Reusable water bottle
- Shopping list to stay focused
Optional But Helpful: π‘
- Wagon or rolling cart for heavy purchases
- Camera for photos
- Hand sanitizer
- Small bills for easy transactions
- Market basket for aesthetic carrying
π΅ Payment Information
| Vendor Type | Payment Methods | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Most Vendors | Cash preferred β | Faster transactions |
| Larger Vendors | Cash + Card π³ | Square/mobile readers |
| Artisan Vendors | Cash + Venmo | Digital options available |
| ATM Availability | Limited | Best to bring cash |
Pro Tip: Bring $60-100 in cash for a typical shopping trip. You’ll likely spend it all on amazing finds! π°
π Dress Code
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be on your feet!) π
- Layers (mornings can be cool, afternoons warm) π§₯
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses) πΆοΈ
- Casual, practical clothing π
π€ Market Etiquette
Do:
- Greet vendors warmly π
- Ask questions about products and farming methods
- Sample when offered
- Handle produce gently
- Keep pets leashed and under control
- Respect other shoppers’ space
Don’t:
- Touch produce without permission
- Haggle aggressively (gentle negotiation is okay near closing)
- Block vendor stalls while chatting
- Let children run freely in crowded areas
- Take photos without asking permission
π― Why Jolly Green Giant Market is Unmissable
πΎ Agricultural Excellence
Anderson sits in one of California’s most fertile agricultural regions. The produce here reflects generations of farming expertise and ideal growing conditions. You’re tasting Northern California at its finest!
π€ Genuine Community Spirit
This isn’t a corporate market β it’s a gathering of neighbors, friends, and passionate growers. The sense of community is palpable from the moment you arrive. Vendors remember regular customers, share recipes, and take pride in their connections.
π Supporting Local Economy
Every dollar spent here directly supports local farmers, beekeepers, bakers, and artisans. You’re not just shopping β you’re investing in your community’s economic health and agricultural future.
π± Farm-to-Table Freshness
Many vendors harvest their produce the morning of the market. You can’t get fresher than that! The difference in taste, nutrition, and quality is remarkable compared to grocery store alternatives.
π¨ Unique Artisan Goods
The handcrafted items here are truly one-of-a-kind. You won’t find mass-produced imports β every piece has a story and reflects the maker’s skill and creativity.
π Educational Opportunities
Vendors are educators as much as sellers. They share growing techniques, recipe ideas, sustainability practices, and the stories behind their products. Every conversation enriches your understanding of food and craftsmanship.
π Sustainable Shopping
By shopping at the Jolly Green Giant Market, you’re reducing food miles, supporting organic practices, minimizing packaging waste, and participating in a more sustainable food system.
π΄ Making the Most of Your Haul
Storage Tips π¦
| Product Type | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Leafy Greens | Wash, dry, refrigerate in container | 5-7 days |
| Root Vegetables | Cool, dark place | 2-4 weeks |
| Tomatoes | Counter (never refrigerate!) | 3-5 days |
| Berries | Refrigerate unwashed | 3-5 days |
| Bread | Freeze extras in slices | 3-6 months |
| Honey | Room temperature, sealed | Indefinitely! π― |
Recipe Ideas π¨βπ³
Saturday Morning Haul:
- Fresh Roots heirloom tomatoes + Sweet Valley sourdough = Perfect bruschetta
- Bountiful Honey + Sweet Valley pastries = Weekend breakfast bliss
- Seasonal berries + yogurt = Healthy parfait
Meal Prep Magic:
- Roast all root vegetables on Sunday for the week
- Make a big salad with fresh greens
- Freeze extra bread slices for toast
- Preserve excess produce through canning or freezing
πΊοΈ Explore the Anderson Area
Make a full day of your market visit! Anderson and the surrounding Shasta County area offer plenty of attractions:
Nearby Attractions π
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Whiskeytown National Recreation Area | 20 miles | Hiking, swimming, waterfalls π |
| Turtle Bay Exploration Park | 15 miles | Museum, gardens, wildlife center π’ |
| Sundial Bridge | 15 miles | Iconic pedestrian bridge π |
| Shasta Dam | 18 miles | Historic engineering marvel ποΈ |
| Lake Shasta | 25 miles | Boating, fishing, camping β΅ |
Other Markets to Explore π
Within Driving Distance:
- Old Sutter Creek Flea Market: Vintage treasures and antiques
- Williams Flea Market: Eclectic finds and collectibles
- Redding Farmers Market: Additional local produce options
- California Flea Markets: Various locations throughout the region
Dining Options Near the Market π½οΈ
- Local Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Featuring ingredients from market vendors
- Anderson Coffee Shops: Perfect for post-market relaxation
- Redding Brewery Scene: Craft beer enthusiasts will love the local options
πͺ Special Events & Seasonal Highlights
The Jolly Green Giant Market hosts special events throughout the year:
Annual Events π
| Season | Special Features |
|---|---|
| Spring πΈ | Plant sale, seedling exchange, garden workshops |
| Summer βοΈ | Peak produce season, extended hours, live music |
| Fall π | Harvest festival, pumpkin patch, apple cider tasting |
| Winter βοΈ | Holiday market, gift bazaar, hot food vendors |
Check with the market at (530) 360-1616 for specific event dates and details!
π¨βπΎ Vendor Opportunities
Interested in becoming a vendor?
The Jolly Green Giant Market welcomes farmers, bakers, artisans, and craftspeople who align with their community values.
Vendor Information
| Vendor Type | Approximate Fee | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Produce Vendors | $25-50/day | Proof of farm/origin |
| Food Vendors | $50-75/day | Health permits required |
| Craft Vendors | $30-60/day | Handmade items only |
| Specialty Vendors | Varies | Contact market directly |
Application Process:
- Contact the market at (530) 360-1616
- Discuss your products and business
- Provide necessary permits/certifications
- Review vendor agreement and fees
- Schedule your first market day!
Vendor Benefits:
- Loyal customer base π₯
- Supportive vendor community π€
- Prime Northern California location π
- Flexible scheduling options π
- Direct customer feedback π¬
π Seasonal Shopping Guide
Spring Shopping List πΈ
- Asparagus, strawberries, artichokes
- Spring greens and fresh herbs
- Wildflower honey (peak season!)
- Plant starts for summer garden
- Spring flowers and bouquets
Summer Shopping List βοΈ
- Heirloom tomatoes, corn, peppers
- Stone fruits (peaches, nectarines, plums)
- Berries galore
- Fresh-baked pies using seasonal fruit
- Herbal honey varieties
Fall Shopping List π
- Pumpkins and winter squash
- Apples, pears, persimmons
- Root vegetables for roasting
- Fall honey harvest
- Handcrafted holiday gifts
Winter Shopping List βοΈ
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, mandarins)
- Winter greens (kale, chard, broccoli)
- Stored honey and preserves
- Artisan breads for holiday meals
- Handcrafted gifts
β Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an admission fee?
No! The market is completely free to enter. π
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Pets are welcome but must be leashed and well-behaved. π
What payment methods are accepted?
Cash is preferred, though some vendors accept cards and digital payments. π΅
Is the market wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entire market features wheelchair-friendly pathways. βΏ
Can I bring my children?
Absolutely! It’s a family-friendly environment. π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦
Are there restrooms available?
Yes, clean restroom facilities are on-site. π»
What if it rains?
The market operates rain or shine, with covered areas available. β
Can I bring my own bags?
Yes! Reusable bags are strongly encouraged. ποΈ
π Final Thoughts
The Jolly Green Giant Market at 6719 Eastside Rd, Anderson, California 96007 (π 530-360-1616) represents everything I love about Northern California livingΒ authentic community connections, exceptional agricultural bounty, talented artisans, and a genuine commitment to sustainability and local economy. Whether you’re a Anderson local or just passing through Northern California, the Jolly Green Giant Market deserves a spot on your weekend itinerary. Bring your reusable bags, your curiosity, your appetite, and an open heart. You’ll leave with more than groceriesΒ you’ll leave with connections, inspiration, and probably a plan to return next weekend!
See you at the market β come early for the best selection! π±ποΈπ―Β











