Portland Farmers Market (Oregon)
Portland Farmers Market is an outdoor farmers' market in Portland, Oregon, United States. Up to two hundred vendors sell produce, fish, meat, dairy products, baked goods, and other agricultural products. It is rated one of the five best farmers markets in the United States based on variety of fresh local foods, numerous workshops and demonstrations, samples of unusual produce, numerous festivals, and non government funding by Eating Well Magazine. It was rated seventh in the country for its sustainable production and transportation, quality control, focus on education, food stamp support, general atmosphere, and community support by Greenlight Magazine.
The market's purpose is to connect Oregon's small farmers directly to consumers. Among the market's early supporters were local restaurant chefs. At its inception in 1992 there was difficulty finding vendors, but now there is a waiting list.
During peak season, the market serves 10,000 to 12,000 shoppers each week. Some of its special events—such as the annual "Summer Loaf" bread, wine, and cheese festival— became so popular they were spun off as separate events. The market has spawned about two dozen smaller farmers markets in the surrounding metropolitan area. The accelerating popularity of area farmers' markets has the Oregon Department of Agriculture considering stronger regulations and inspections.
Read more about Portland Farmers Market (Oregon): Locations
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