As Portland’s weather warms, flowers start to bloom and the bees begin to appear, and another spot close to Lincoln generates buzz as well, the Portland Farmers Market. Located just a five minute drive (or 10 minute walk) from Lincoln at Portland State University, the food market is where hundreds of vendors sell their locally grown produce.
The farmers market is a nonprofit organization. There is a variety of products available to buy, from freshly baked breads to what’s said to be the best breakfast burritos in town. According to the official website there are also other farmers markets located in Portland, including in Shemanski Park, as well as in King, Kenton and Lents neighborhoods.
When I visited the Portland State market on a recent Saturday, I interviewed a woman who was working the Amylk stand. Amylk is a brand owned by Lincoln parent, Amy Colville. The brand offers delicious pure plant-based milks, seamoss and other wellness products.
Ana Johns (a woman who works at the Amylk stand) explained that the Farmers Market community is a very special one to her, especially with the other vendors and customers.
“That’s the number one reason why I’m here, the customers are great, but it’s the other vendors, people you’ve known for years seeing each other every week.. a hundred percent is a special community,” said Johns.
She says being at the Farmers Market has had a positive effect on the Amylk business.
“I think for this product specifically it’s important to have a direct consumer relationship,” said Johns. “At the height of the season, we are at five different markets.”
Market customer Lucy Farnsworth was shopping at the Nomarket. She said that she comes once a month in all seasons, except for winter.
“People who are shopping here always seem to be in a good mood and are really friendly,” said Farnsworth. “It has gotten bigger and bigger. I have gone to the market for the last 15 or 20 years, and every year there are more great farm stands here.”
The farmers market provides a friendly community that supports local farmers and companies. It’s open on Saturdays from 8:30 am – 2 pm during the dates of April 5 – October 25. But starting November 1st the hours change to 9 am – 2 pm. The market is a core part of Portland’s is culture and definitely worth checking out as the days get warmer.