Find fresh produce and support local growers at your neighborhood farmers market

Posted on May 15, 2024 by Hannah Murphy. This entry was posted in Eating Well, Engaging Interests, Staying Healthy. Bookmark the permalink.

As warm weather and longer days approach us, so does farmers market season! Local farmers markets are lively spots where organic veggies proudly wear their dirt and fruits are so fresh, they practically say “hello.” The smell of freshly baked bread mixes with the scent of handmade soaps, creating a delightful experience. These markets aren’t just about buying food; they’re about connecting with your community, chatting with farmers who know all about their veggies, and discovering the amazing flavors that come from local farms. So, grab your tote bag and get ready for a food adventure where every bite has a story, and every stall is full of tasty surprises.

Resources around the region

You can find information on a constellation of farmers markets that operate on different days all over the Puget Sound via several organizations.

The Seattle Neighborhood Farmers Market Alliance and Seattle Farmers Market Association operate 10 markets all over the Emerald City.

The Washington State Farmers Market Association brings healthy local food to 95 communities and direct sales to hundreds of family farms across the state.

Here are a few of our favorite local farmers markets:

Year-round farmers markets

University District
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The University District Farmers Market stands out as one of the nation’s finest, celebrated for its rich history and vibrant community. Established in 1993 on Seattle’s University Way (a.k.a. “The Ave”), it boasts a diverse array of over 80 stalls during peak season.

West Seattle
Sundays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The West Seattle Farmers Market, located in the bustling West Seattle Junction, has become a cherished Sunday tradition for families in South Seattle. Since relocating to the street from its original parking lot spot, the market has thrived, offering a warm and welcoming community atmosphere.

Capitol Hill
Sundays, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tuesdays, 3 – 7 p.m. (July 11 – September 26)

The Capitol Hill Farmers Market is a vital part of the heart of the neighborhood, offering a diverse selection of locally grown produce and delicious ready-to-eat foods made with local ingredients. It’s a great place to connect with local growers and artisans, stock up on fresh produce for the week, and enjoy the flavors of the season. Don’t forget to bring your camera for plenty of colorful Instagram-worthy moments!

Ballard
Sundays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Open since 2000, The Ballard Farmers Market is Seattle’s first year-round neighborhood farmers market selling produce exclusively from Washington state farmers, and features the finest seasonal fruits and vegetables, prepared foods and arts and crafts in historic downtown Ballard.

Pike Place Market
Daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (times vary)

No list of farmers markets would be complete without the one and only Pike Place Market, one of the oldest and largest continuously operating public markets in the United States and a Seattle icon since 1907. While tourists love what many consider the “soul of Seattle,” this working market serves fresh produce, meats, seafood, prepared foods and artisan goods year-round and features local farm stands from spring to fall. Also check out the Pike Place Express Farmers Markets.

Seasonal farmers markets

Columbia City
Wednesdays, 3 – 7 p.m. (May 1 – October 9)
Second Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (November 1 – April 13)

The Columbia City Farmers Market, located in one of the nation’s most diverse zip codes, offers a unique blend of fresh produce and diverse cuisine, reflecting its multicultural community. Families flock to this bustling market, not only for its exceptional produce but also for its role as a hub for food access, with nearby clinics offering vital programs. Established in 1998, the market continues to thrive under the care of its community-focused organizers.

Lake City
Thursdays, 3 – 7 p.m. (June 13 – October 2)

The Lake City Farmers Market is a cherished seasonal event that brings the community together in a celebratory spirit each spring. Families can enjoy shopping while children participate in various activities offered by community partners. This market showcases a variety of unique offerings and seasonal ingredients from local farms and artisans, catering to the diverse North End neighborhood.

Phinney Ridge
Fridays, 3 – 7 p.m. (June 7 – September 27)

The Phinney Farmers Market is a collaborative effort between Neighborhood Farmers Markets and the Phinney Neighborhood Association. This market transforms the upper parking lot of the PNA into a bustling community hub. Families can enjoy the adjacent playground while browsing a variety of fresh, seasonal produce and tasty local food offerings. Additionally, a Harvest Market in mid-November offers an opportunity to stock up on seasonal ingredients for holiday meals and cozy winter gatherings.

Magnolia
Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (June 1 – October 12)

The Magnolia Village Farmers Market offers a bustling scene filled with families and food enthusiasts. Located in the heart of Magnolia Village, this market is a favorite outing for local chefs and home cooks alike. Featuring a wide array of seasonal fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheeses, meats, and artisan foods from regional farms, the market provides a delightful Saturday afternoon.

Madrona
Fridays, 3 – 7 p.m. (May 17 – October 25)

Located in one of Seattle’s most diverse neighborhoods, the Madrona Farmers Market serves residents of the Central District, Cherry Hill, Madison Valley, Madrona and Madison Park with a range of seasonal produce from Washington farmers, fishers and ranchers, plus locally made artisan foods.

Wallingford
Wednesday, 3 – 7 p.m. (May 29 – September 25)

Located in Meridian Park, the Wallingford Farmers Market offers farm-fresh produce, prepared foods and sweet summer treats with plenty of space to picnic, run around the playground or stroll through the P-Patch Garden at the Good Shepherd Center.

Further afield

You can find many more area farmers markets via the Washington State Farmers Market Association’s handy “Find a Farmers Market” locator map.

Puget Sound markets include:

Shoreline (Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.), Lake Forest Park (Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.), Kenmore (Wednesdays, 3-7 p.m.), Woodinville (Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.), Kirkland (Wednesdays, 3-7 p.m.), Bellevue (Thursdays, 3-7 p.m.), Mercer Island (Sundays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.), Renton (Tuesdays, 3-7 p.m.), Tukwila (Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m.), Burien (Thursdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.), Des Moines (Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.), Federal Way (Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.), Proctor (Saturdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.), Tacoma (Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.) and many more!

Most markets open in May or early June. Check listings for details.