American Legion Farmers Market, three decades of local and diverse produce, crafts, meat and more

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Starting in June and extending until October, the American Legion Tuesday Farmers Market is one of South Lake Tahoe’s most well-known traditions. Started by Jim Coalwell 31 years ago, the market aims to sell local and diverse produce, allowing farmers from El Dorado and surrounding counties to make a profit. Stands vary from produce to meat products to jewelry and art, and the market works with the American Legion to support veterans and the mission of the legion itself.

Many vendors holding stands at the market are those who have been selling products for generations. For example, one stand, titled Perez Family Farms, has been farming in El Dorado County for 25-30 years, and is one of the oldest stands at the market. The family grows and picks all products themselves without pesticides, and sells a variety of produce, ranging from basil to potatoes. They are most well-known for their heirloom tomatoes, which sell out in almost every market, according to an employee at the stand, due to their rich flavor.

Additionally, while the market is predominantly filled with those selling produce and meat products, the market also offers a space for artists to share their creations. Richard and Robin Bess of RB Custom Designs, who have been coming to the market for a little over a year and a half, specialize in creating wood laser products featuring national parks, California state parks, sports stadiums, and more. Also working on engraving wallets, spatulas, and a variety of other products, the stand at the American Legion Market sells items featuring images of Lake Tahoe, California, and more. Co-owner Richard Bess shared that his favorite part of the market is meeting a variety of people, both locals and visitors, who visit their stand.

Yet, the market shines in its creativity to sell products beyond expectations. For example, a stand named Sanborn Orchards, which has been coming to the market
since 2006, sells a fruit variety called Angelcots. Developed by Ross Sanborn, the fruit is sweet and incredibly juicy, and is a hybrid between apricots and a Middle Eastern stone fruit, which has no English name. They are only sold at the market while supplies last, and according to an employee at the market Tuesday, next week will be their last week at the American Legion market selling the incredibly delicious fruit.

The American Legion is located at 2748 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, Calif.