Farmers Market a fine fare for all

Every Saturday, vendors gather in the Park Blocks near Smith Memorial Center to pedal their wares.

Having begun in May and running through October, the Portland Farmers Market is a staple on the Portland State University campus during the summer months. The market brings people from all over to taste the bounty of food and experience the fine atmosphere.

Chuck Lo, owner of a flower stand at the market, appreciates the location of the market.

“A lot more people buy flowers here,” said Lo, citing the number of business men and women who frequent his booth.

For Lo, his wife and daughter, who help run the booth, this is their first year doing business in the Park Blocks, but it has been an enjoyable one. Despite his professional stance and his extensive selection of fresh-cut and dried flowers, Lo doesn’t consider it work.

“It’s a weekend hobby,” he said with a grin.

Moving past Lo’s flowers, the aroma of fresh baked breads fills the air and above the sounds of the enthusiastic crowd, the warm tones of a flute permeate. Passersby pause at booths along the way to examine the goodies for sale.

Customers attracted to the Deep Roots Farm stand find an inviting array of fresh, organically grown vegetables.

Proprietor Kimberly Moor said this is her first time at the Park Blocks location, but so far, she is happy with the number of customers.

“This is a really great market,” she said. “This is our busiest market. We’ve had people from California say that this is better than the ones down there.”

Visitors to the market will find more than just flowers and vegetables. Local jellies, fresh seafood, gardening tips from the Oregon State University Master Gardeners Association and even chef demonstrations all add to the flare of the market.

The Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will continue on through October. For more information, log on to www.portlandfarmersmarket.org.