Los Angeles' harvest season is a special time of year. It’s when the fields are bursting with ripe produce, and local farms open their gates to the community.
But it’s more than just a time to enjoy the abundant harvest; it’s an opportunity to connect with the land, support local farmers, and experience the warmth of the community. From fresh produce to family activities and sustainable farming education, local farms around L.A. offer something for everyone.
Why Harvest Season Matters
In a city as vast as Los Angeles, it’s easy to forget the importance of local agriculture. However, supporting local farms during harvest season isn’t just a nice thing to do—it’s essential for our community and the environment.
Local farms play a critical role in providing fresh, nutritious food that doesn’t have to travel thousands of miles to reach your plate. This means you're getting produce that’s in season, picked at the peak of ripeness, and often more flavorful and nutritious.
Plus, buying local helps reduce the environmental impact associated with long-distance food transport. It supports sustainable farming practices that prioritize the health of the land and the well-being of farm animals. By visiting and purchasing from these farms, you’re helping to sustain the local economy and preserve green spaces in Los Angeles.
Top Farms to Visit Around Los Angeles
Underwood Family Farms
Located just outside L.A., Underwood Family Farms offers a quintessential farm experience. During harvest season, the farm is alive with activity, offering pick-your-own options for a variety of crops. Depending on the time of year, you can pick strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, and more. The farm also hosts a Harvest Festival in the fall, complete with a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and tractor rides.
3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021 • (805) 529-3690
Tanaka Farms
Tanaka Farms, located in Irvine, is another fantastic option for Angelenos willing to venture just a bit outside the city. This family-owned farm is known for its seasonal tours and U-pick opportunities. During harvest season, visitors can pick strawberries, watermelons, and pumpkins. Tanaka Farms also offers educational tours that teach visitors about sustainable farming practices and the importance of organic farming.
5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612 • (949) 653-2100
McGrath Family Farm
McGrath Family Farm is a small, family-run operation that prides itself on organic farming. The farm offers a wide range of U-pick options during harvest season, including strawberries, raspberries, and other seasonal vegetables. The farm is deeply committed to sustainable agriculture and often hosts educational events to promote awareness about the benefits of organic farming.
1012 W Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010 • (805) 983-0333
Tapia Brothers Farm
Located right in the San Fernando Valley, Tapia Brothers Farm is a local favorite known for its farm stand and U-pick pumpkin patch. During harvest season, the farm offers a variety of fresh produce, including tomatoes, corn, and squash. The pumpkin patch is particularly popular in the fall, drawing families from all over LA for a fun day of picking pumpkins and enjoying farm-fresh produce. Tapia Brothers Farm also participates in local farmers markets, making it easy to enjoy their products even if you can’t visit the farm itself.
5251 Hayvenhurst Ave, Encino, CA 91436 • (818) 905-6155
Thorne Family Farm
Thorne Family Farm is a charming farm located in Malibu, offering a delightful experience for those looking to pick up fresh produce. While the farm itself doesn’t offer U-pick, its farm stand is open on Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM, providing a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other locally produced goods. The farm stand is a hidden gem in the community, allowing you to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce directly from the source. It’s a perfect stop for those who want to support local agriculture and take home some of the best produce Los Angeles has to offer.
6043 Bonsall Dr, Malibu, CA 90265 • (310) 663-2107
What to Expect During Your Visit
Harvest season is a vibrant time on these farms, and there’s plenty to see and do.
Seasonal Produce: Expect to find a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season. Depending on the farm, you might find tomatoes, pumpkins, apples, leafy greens, and more. Some farms also offer homemade goods like jams, pies, and salsas made from their own produce.
Family-Friendly Activities: Many farms offer more than just produce. You can enjoy activities like hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and farm tours. These activities are designed to be fun for all ages, making a visit to the farm a great family outing.
Farmers Markets: Some of these farms also sell their produce at local farmers markets. This is a great way to sample a wider variety of products and support multiple farms at once. For more details on the Farmers Markets in L.A., click here.
Tips for Visiting Local Farms
Check the farm’s website or call ahead to find out what produce is available and what activities are planned. Some farms may require reservations for tours or special events. It’s also a good idea to bring cash, as not all farms accept credit cards.
Beyond just visiting, there are other ways to support these farms. Consider joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, where you can receive a weekly or monthly box of fresh produce directly from the farm. You can also support the farms by spreading the word—share your experience on social media or bring friends along on your next visit.
Los Angeles may be a bustling city, but just beyond its borders lie farms that offer a unique way to experience the harvest season. These farms provide fresh, locally grown produce and a connection to the land that is increasingly rare in urban life. So why not take a break from the city and explore the bounty of Los Angeles’ local farms this harvest season?
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