Hollywood celebrities’ favorite farmers market in Malibu has been ordered to immediately shift base amid rising concerns for public safety.
The Legacy Park hotspot had been operating at the location after moving from Los Angeles County Library’s parking lot on Civic Center Way.
Thanks to its prime Malibu spot, it regularly brought in high-profile locals. Over the years, stars such as Simon Cowell, Pierce Brosnan, Cindy Crawford, Hailey Bieber and fashion designer Betsey Johnson have been seen.
City officials said that Legacy Park “was not designed or approved for farmers market operations” and the location was never intended to be a permanent location.
“This is not about shutting down a farmers market that our community values,” City Manager Joe Irvin said in a statement Friday.
Authorities said despite several attempts, the market’s temporary location continues to cause safety issues, parking shortages, blocked access to nearby businesses, and permit violations.
The Legacy Park cannot safely handle the extra traffic and foot crowds, especially on weekends, city officials said.
Market vendors and booths take up roughly 40% of the Civic Center’s public parking, making it hard for local business customers and visitors to park.
“We have worked to make the current arrangement work, but we also have a responsibility to protect public safety and ensure City requirements are applied fairly,” the city manager added.
While LA County reviews the market’s permanent license, the City has offered a temporary spot right outside City Hall.
High-profile residents have consistently lobbied city officials to keep the market at Legacy Park. In a 2023 Letter to the Editor published by The Malibu Times, designer Betsey Johnson made her stance clear and wrote, “The Malibu Farmers Market has found its true home.”
“The smiling faces of the vendors and customers make the experience even more delightful. I am writing to request that you continue supporting our Malibu Farmers Market and vote unanimously to keep it at Legacy Park,” she wrote.
