Launched in September, the Lakeside Farmers Market takes place every Thursday from 3 to 7pm at Equine Event Services, located at 11055 Moreno Avenue in Lakeside. The certified farmers market has grown to more than 30 vendors and counting, offering East County residents an opportunity to shop locally while enjoying an outdoor community gathering.
Visitors can browse locally grown fruits and vegetables, artisan cheeses, freshly baked breads and pastries, organic honey, preserves and specialty foods. Prepared food vendors offer a variety of international cuisines, while local artisans sell handcrafted jewelry, pottery, artwork and gifts.
Beyond shopping, the market features cooking demonstrations and family-friendly activities, and will soon include live music, making it as much a neighborhood gathering place as a destination for fresh groceries. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the spacious equestrian park setting provides plenty of parking, a welcome convenience for anyone accustomed to navigating crowded farmers markets elsewhere in San Diego.
Beginning Thursday, November 5, the market will introduce a beer and wine garden on the first Thursday of each month. Guests ages 21 and older will be able to enjoy craft beer and local wine while exploring the vendor booths, listening to music and taking advantage of the evening atmosphere.
The new market also represents another step toward realizing the original vision for the Dianne Jacob Lakeside Equestrian Park, a $16.9 million county facility that opened in December 2023. Named in honor of former San Diego County Supervisor Dianne Jacob, the more than 13-acre property was developed to accommodate a wide range of recreational and community activities.
The park features a covered equestrian arena, banquet hall and event grounds designed to host horse shows, livestock exhibitions, car shows and other public gatherings. A farmers market was among the community uses envisioned for the property, and its arrival provides another reason for residents to visit the facility beyond traditional equestrian events.
Conveniently situated just off State Route 67 near Willow Road, the Lakeside Farmers Market offers an accessible Thursday evening destination for residents of Lakeside, Santee, El Cajon and surrounding East County communities. Its afternoon-to-evening schedule also makes it possible for shoppers to stop by after work rather than having to plan around a weekend market.
The market continues to welcome additional vendors during its inaugural season, with local farmers, bakers, prepared food businesses, artisans and crafters encouraged to apply. Interested vendors can contact info@equinecenterfarmersmarket.com for information about participating.
The Lakeside Farmers Market takes place Thursdays at 11055 Moreno Avenue in San Diego's East County city of Lakeside. For more information, visit thelakesidefarmersmarket.com.
Originally published on November 1, 2026.