On Sunday, April 6, the GreenHaven Pocket Farmers Market will start its fourth season with a new schedule and expanded offerings designed to bring the community together in fresh ways. This local market is shifting from Saturday to Sunday operations, creating a weekend gathering spot for neighbors to connect while shopping for fresh, locally grown produce. The grand opening promises to be a celebration of community spirit with special guests and entertainment that highlights the market’s commitment to fostering neighborhood connections in the GreenHaven Pocket area.
Former Oakland Raiders player and current Sacramento City Councilmember Rick Jennings will headline the opening ceremony, bringing his passion for community service to this local initiative. Jennings, who proudly wears his Super Bowl ring from the Raiders’ 1977 championship victory, has been instrumental in supporting the farmers market since its inception. The celebration begins promptly at 9:00 AM, with the Celtic Charms Band providing a festive soundtrack of Irish and Scottish melodies that will continue throughout the market hours until 1:00 PM, creating a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers of all ages.
- Councilmember Rick Jennings celebrating the opening of the GreenHaven Pocket Farmers Market alongside the vibrant performances of Celtic Charms Band. Source: eastsacramentonews.com
The opening ceremony featuring Councilmember Rick Jennings represents a meaningful continuation of his support for the market. As General Manager Vic Cima notes, Jennings and his chief of staff Dennis Rogers were crucial in securing initial funding to launch the market. Though the councilmember will need to depart by 9:30 AM to attend church services, his presence underscores the importance of this community gathering space. Jennings’ 25-year leadership of the Center for Fathers and Families aligns perfectly with the market’s mission to strengthen neighborhood bonds.
The Celtic Charms Band, founded by Christina Newport in 2023, will ensure the festive atmosphere continues long after the opening ceremony concludes. Market-goers can enjoy their diverse repertoire that extends beyond traditional Irish and Scottish tunes to include Scandinavian folk music and beloved songs from the 1960s and ’70s. The band doesn’t just perform—they educate, offering fascinating historical context for their music and insights into Celtic culture, creating an experience that’s both entertaining and enriching for market visitors of all ages.
This season brings significant improvements to the GreenHaven Pocket Farmers Market experience. The move to Sunday operations wasn’t made lightly—it stems from the organizers’ commitment to offering customers the freshest possible produce. This strategic shift allows the market to double its offering of fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, ensuring a more abundant selection for shoppers. Additionally, Sunday hours provide families with more leisurely shopping time, creating a relaxed weekend atmosphere that encourages browsing and conversation among neighbors.
The market’s new Sunday schedule creates a perfect pairing with the Elks Lodge Sunday breakfast, widely regarded as one of the best meal values in Sacramento. For just $15 all-inclusive, visitors can enjoy made-to-order omelets, pancakes, French toast, waffles, and much more before or after their market shopping. This delicious collaboration extends the community experience, with incoming Elks Lodge President Robert Moore inviting visitors to tour the lodge facilities, which include handball courts and an indoor swimming pool. For complete details about upcoming market events and participating vendors, visitors can explore the comprehensive website at ghpfarmersmarket.com.
