Portland Farmer’s Market
The Portland metro area is full of great farmer’s markets which thrive all summer long, but the Portland Farmer’s Market is easily one of the biggest and best. The main market is in the Park Blocks downtown on Saturdays from April through December, but there are off-shoot markets in a few other locations as well throughout the week. It’s not just a great place to get fresh produce directly from the farmers who grow it, the Portland Farmer’s Market is also the ideal spot to get a quick bite to eat for breakfast or lunch.
From April through December (exact dates vary each year), the main Portland Farmer’s Market takes over the South Park Blocks each Saturday morning and lasts until the early afternoon. It’s worth going early, because it can get extremely crowded and difficult to move through the stalls. No matter when you go, don’t be in a hurry or you’ll have a more frustrating experience. Take your time and enjoy the sights and smells of the market – it’s therapeutic, really.
In addition to the produce stands, the Portland Farmer’s Market is home to several food vendors who serve up good food. There are also lots of regular events and special festivals throughout the season which take place during the market, including cooking classes for kids, cooking demonstrations by local chefs and touring cookbook authors, and festivals celebrating the arrival of things like peaches, tomatoes, and corn.
Other Portland Market locations include a different Park Blocks location on Wednesdays and the Ecotrust beuilding on Thursdays. You’ll find the complete and current season schedule (along with directions to each market location) here.
Schedule: The months and hours of each market varies, so be sure to check this year’s schedule for the most current information.
More Information: See the official Portland Farmer’s Market website for more information, and this great market report from April 2007 (read the comments for some good market tips, too).
Photo by: kthread