Vancouver Farmers Market: Find Fresh Produce, Artwork and More!

Every summer, weekends can find me at Esther Short Park, visiting the Vancouver Farmers Market. The Vancouver Farmers Market runs from March 21st to November 1st. The best times to go, especially for fresh produce, are from the end of May to the beginning of October. Some produce stands may not operate for the full duration of the season.

The Vancouver Farmers Market is open on Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm and on Sundays from 10 am to 3 pm. If a permit is approved by the city, the market could soon be open on Friday nights from 6 pm to 9 pm. The farmers market is located on the west side of Esther Short Park. The park also features a playground, a water fountain to play in, roses, and an outdoor concert area. Dogs on a leash are allowed both in the park and in the farmers market.

Although Esther Short Park was once overgrown, and dangerous at night, a clean up of the park began in 1997 after the mayor Royce Pollard had a run in with a homeless man there. Now the park is kept clean and is mostly open lawn.

While at the Vancouver Farmers Market, you can find farm fresh produce, home made crafts, flower arrangements, jewelry, concession stand foods and more. Close to the park there is also a toy store, a Starbucks, a salon, a Subway and a Hilton hotel.

The Vancouver Farmers Market often draws a large crowd. Those who drive there may have to park several streets away. The earlier in the day you arrive, the more likely you will find close parking. Make it a morning event! Park before the market opens to enjoy a coffee and a walk through the park!

For those eligible to receive farmers market checks from WIC, these are available during normal market hours on the following dates; June 27th & 28th, July 11th and 12th and August 1st and 2nd. WIC provides between $20 and $40 for eligible families to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. These checks are on a first come, first served basis.

An additional change to this year's farmers market is for families receiving food stamp benefits. Families will now be able to use their Quest basic food EBT card to buy produce! More information regarding this change can be found by visiting the Vancouver Farmers Market information booth.

Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Washington, Esther Short Park and the Vancouver Farmers Market are both well worth visiting.