FEATURES: The farmers' market on The Blvd.

Grapes for sale/Photo by Mindy Simmons

By Omar Castellon
LANCASTER, Ca 1:54 p.m.

With the aid of Raw Inspiration, a non-profit operator of farmers’ markets throughout the state, Lancaster Boulevard plays host to its own market every Thursday beginning at 3 p.m.  It is an opportunity for growers across California to demonstrate, and profit from, their labors.

One such individual, Luke Tapia, whose business has been around for roughly 60 years, comes from Encino with a large selection of produce, from various chili peppers to different types of squash.  Though new to the boulevard, Tapia is not unfamiliar with Lancaster, having sold his products at the Antelope Valley Winery for the greater part of 2010.  When asked for a reason behind the move to a new location, Tapia said, “We do really well at the winery so we’re always looking to branch out.”

Jorge Pinela, on the other hand, comes from even farther away.  Arriving from San Luis Obispo, Pinela has been selling his fruits in Lancaster for two weeks and has described the experience as “Mas o menos,” which roughly translates to pretty good or so-so, depending on context. 

Visitors on The Blvd./Photo by Mindy Simmons

Though the market attracts vendors from across Southern CA, there still remains a strong local presence.  Lynelle Deroo, for example, is an organic grower from Lancaster.  Despite working for around three months, the individual she partners with has been in operation for over five years.  Her outlook on the market is positive.  “I think it’s a great idea.  It has revitalized the town in a wonderful way.”  However, she did admit that business was a little slow during The Antelope Valley Fair and Labor Day weekend.  Deroo went on to express that when she was younger, Lancaster Boulevard contained a number of local businesses, which were slowly phased out when retailers such as Wal-Mart became prevalent.  When asked about the condition of the boulevard afterward, Deroo said, “It got nasty with crime.” Subsequently, the Farmers’ Market, as well as the revitalization efforts that took place last year, has brought about welcome changes.

Those looking for something more will be pleased to know that the offerings at the market extend beyond produce.  Aside from the typical fare of fruits and vegetables, one can also find Mediterranean cuisine, bacon-wrapped hotdogs, Thai-style BBQ and the Salvadoran mainstay, pupusas. Similarly, live performances can be seen on The Blvd.  Throughout the summer, the farmers’ market has also been home to the several live performances, which begin at 6:30 p.m. in front of BeX Bar & Grill.  Another show, which will feature Nuns 4 Fun, is set for Sept. 22.

Aside from the market itself, The Blvd. continues its revitalization efforts with a number of upcoming attractions.  For example, the Museum of Art and History is set to open in its new location later this year and further down the road, a new brewery/restaurant will be under construction.  In a short window of time, Lancaster Boulevard has undergone a drastic transformation to become a place truly worth visiting.  Those who have been suspicious or wary of the area in the past will be pleased to know that it is now a vibrant and livelier street.