The La Jolla Open Aire Market is different than other farmers markets in that all proceeds benefit La Jolla Elementary (LJES), a public school. The proceeds from the market fund various initiatives enjoyed by all children at LJES, including school improvements and programs such as art, music, library, technology and additional classroom teachers to lower class sizes. The market was started by former La Jolla Elementary School mom and La Jolla community supporter, Sherry Ahern. In 1996, Sherry had two children enrolled at LJES and was on the Friends of La Jolla Elementary, Inc. Board, the school’s non profit education foundation. The original motivation for the market was to help fund a library and librarian. At the time, the school’s “library” consisted only of a small collection of books in the back of the auditorium. With help and support from San Diego Unified School District, local community groups, the Friends Board and Board President at the time Sarah Agler, the vision became a reality two years later. The first market was held on October 25, 1998 with 14 farmers and one artisan. The market has continued to grow and in addition to helping the children, the market has become a vibrant weekly community event and gathering place for the entire La Jolla community with over 120 vendors every Sunday, 25 years and counting…. The market would not be possible without the amazing support of the district and Friends of LJES foundation volunteers.
