About Us

In the summer of 2009 a small group of individuals under the leadership of Carmen Porras of El Arrayan and Charlotte Semple of Xocodiva Artisan Chocolates joined forces to create a Slow Food Convivium for the Banderas Bay area, and during that process Charlotte became inspired to create a farmers Market in Puerto Vallarta. As high season approached and the individuals involved turned their focus back to their own businesses, the vision went into hibernation for everyone except Charlotte.

Charlotte has a background in social entrepreneurship, and it has long been her dream to create a venue where aspiring entrepreneurs can nurture and grow their businesses. Having participated as a vendor in a neighborhood farmers  market in Victoria, Canada, she knew first hand that, in addition to building community, a farmers market would provide opportunities for local farmers, bakers and artisans to showcase their talents.

Over the ensuing months she continued to look for suitable locations that could host the Market, and in March of 2010 she approached the Paradise Church who had just leased a large space on Pulpito St. The match was perfect!  Within 2 weeks the “Old Town Farmers Market” was open and ready for business with over 30 local producers, much to the delight of the more than 800 happy Market visitors who attended on opening day, March 27, 2010.

The demand for space in the Market continued to grow as applications from local artisans poured in. Beginning on November 5th, 2011 the Market will be relocated to its’ new home on the street of Pino Suarez between B. Badillio and V. Carranza and inside the school of El Jardin de Ninos Emiliano Zapata. The Market is launching some exciting new initiatives with the school such as a garden and composting project for the students as well as assisting the school with some of its’ much needed maintenance and school supplies.

In keeping with the philosophy of “make it, bake it, grow it,” the Old Town Farmers Market- Tianguis Cultural is “a producer only” Market - all the products are made, baked, grown and sold by Vendors, all whom live within 50 kilometers of Puerto Vallarta. Now in its’ third season, the Market provides local fresh farm produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, community education and live entertainment to locals and tourists from the entire Bay of Banderas region.

The Market is currently administered by the Market Director and Market Coordinator, in conjunction with a volunteer Vendor Selection Committee whose job it is to interview new applicants and assist with on site concerns.

The Old Town Farmers Market - Tianguis Cultural has fast become one of Puerto Vallarta's most compelling weekend attractions where you can meet new friends, say hello to old ones, talk directly to the producers, buy great products, support the local economy and take part in activities for the whole family. We invite you to visit us every Saturday from November to May

The Old Town Farmers Market is open

between 930 am and 2 pm.