Louis Campuzan from M&L Campuzan Farms holds up baby carrots and red beets, which he sells at the Farmers Market in Downtown Lodi. (Angelina Gervasi/News-Sentinel)

Try the Farmers Market for food and fun

Looking for fresh, crisp summer air, some munchies and a place to entertain the kids? Try Lodi's Farmers Market.

The Farmers Market, put on by the Downtown Lodi Business Partnership, takes place every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. between June 5 and Sept. 25.

The market is held on School Street between Oak and Elm streets. Some of the surrounding side streets are also filled with vendors and activities.

For 2008, Jaime Watts, executive director for the DLBP, estimates that the market will feature between 75 and 100 vendors, who will sell everything from fresh, locally grown produce to hand-made crafts to food that is fresh and ready to eat.

Those searching for something to satisfy their thirst should visit the market's upscale beer and wine garden, sponsored every week by a different winery.

While you're over there, take some time to enjoy music from local rock-n-roll and blues bands.

Got kids? Bring them to the kids' activity area near Elm Street, where they can jump in the bounce house, get their faces painted and hang out with clowns.

"It's definitely family friendly," Watts said.

Not only is the market a good place to get local goods and enjoy some live entertainment, it's a great way to meet new people and catch up with old friends.

"You get all these people running into each other, excited," Watts said. "It's a weekly gathering of friends."

Opening night you can come out and meet the mascot for the Lodi GrapeSox and purchase a commemorative glass from the beer and wine garden.

Starting June 19, the market will start its series of theme nights.

Free leis will be handed out that night in celebration of Hawaiian Night.

Patriot Night on July 3 will feature representatives from different branches of the armed forces. Each branch will put on a demonstration, such as honor guard drills.

The Bayou Boys will perform on Aug. 7's Mardi Gras Night. Children are invited to make their own masquerade mask.

Sept. 11 will be Country Western Night and will include line dancing and country music.

With so many events going on, Watts said a lot of people come out every Thursday for the duration of the market's season.

"It's a mini-festival, it really is," Watts said.