Top Oregon Farmers Markets to Visit This Summer
Ah, the gentle warmth of the Oregon sun, the magic of its pristine landscapes, and the symphony of its spectacular coastlines, forest trails, and rushing waterfalls. It’s summer in Oregon and a season filled with delightful outdoor activities and events, not the least of which are our famed farmers markets showcasing the fertile bounty of our beautiful state. Here are 10 hidden gems waiting to fill your basket (and your belly!) with pure Oregon goodness.
1. Portland Farmers Market in King Neighborhood
Gather your wicker baskets and head out to the King neighborhood. Pulling produce from family farms in the lush Willamette Valley, this Sunday market is a Portland institution. Vendors like Baird Family Orchards and Pure Peonies make trips to the market a fragrant paradise.2. Beaverton Farmers Market
In the heart of Beaverton, this is where Valley-grown produce meets Coastal seafood. Eclectic choices like fresh wasabi from Frog Eyes Wasabi Farm make this market stand out. Don’t miss the chance to taste some Unger Farms berries – an Oregon favorite.
3. Ashland Growers Market
Down south in Ashland, artisans offer exceptional organic produce, fresh flowers, and arts and crafts. There are diverse food carts as well, so stick around after shopping for a restaurant-quality meal amidst the Shakespearean backdrop of Ashland.4. Bend Farmers Market
Among the pine trees and along the crystal-clear Deschutes River sits the Bend Farmers Market. Vendors like Rainshadow Organics and Juniper Jungle Farm provide a generous assortment of fresh veggies, meats, and even grains raised on the Central Oregon high desert.5. Eugene Saturday Market
Known as the oldest outdoor crafts market in the U.S., the Eugene Saturday Market marries homemade crafts with farm-fresh food. After exploring the artistry, make sure you indulge in farm-to-table treats from Rogue Valley Brambles or snag a bag of the legendary Gales Meadow Farm heirloom garlic.6. Hood River Farmers Market
You’ll be enchanted with this market in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. Take a trip up the historic Highway 30 and you’ll be rewarded with a treasure trove of the freshest and most delicious fruits from the likes of Mt. Hood Organic Farms.7. McMinnville Farmers Market
Thursdays in McMinnville (Mac to locals) are marked with the joy of their downtown farmers market. The plethora of vineyards in the vicinity ensures tasty wine is just within reach – a perfect complement to the variety of fresh, locally-sourced products.8. Hillsboro Farmers Market
Surrounded by Intel campuses, this tech-town holds a robust farmers market. The local cherries are legendary. Grab a cup of Stumptown coffee while wandering the stalls, and you might just catch a live acoustic set by local musicians.9. Corvallis Farmers Market
Nestled in the university town of Corvallis, this market is the perfect spot to enjoy Willamette Valley’s best offerings. Local tip: Look out for the superb mushrooms from Midnight Sun Farm.10. Seaside Farmers Market
Finally, you can’t have summer without a trip to the coast. The Seaside Farmers Market offers delicious homegrown vegetables, freshly caught seafood, and delightful baked goods, all with a backdrop of crashing waves and sunset views.Undoubtedly, these farmers markets are a must-visit for anyone cherishing the best of Oregon. This summer, take time to explore, taste, and truly experience the richness our marvelous state has to offer.