Why Olympia? The Farmer's Market

Olympia offers an eclectic experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether it's the natural beauty of the rolling Black Hills and Capital Forest, the opulence of the Capitol Building, or the glistening waterfront, the Olympia area is a gem tucked in the heart of the south sounds with something for everyone. One of the most unique things about this community is the Farmer's Market, one of the only vendor-owned and operated markets in Washington state. 

The venue is open all year round, filled with dozens of local vendors and merchants catering to more than 400,000 annual visitors.

The Olympia Farmer's Market was founded in 1975 by local produce seller Mary Town, who famously used $500 of her own sales revenue as the seed money for the project. Since then, the market has become a staple of the community, providing fresh local produce, meat products, merchandise crafted by local artisans, and a row of food booths to all who make their way to the market. 

During the summer season, local bands are given the opportunity to perform for hundreds of patrons perusing the market on their lunch breaks. 

The board members that run the market pride themselves on making the experience accessible to all with programs like EBT and SNAP Market Match, which allows people receiving government assistance the chance to buy fresh, local produce. There are also "Senior Days" during the high season of the market, offering savings on numerous items for those that qualify. 

The summer months of the high season come with robust fresh fruit and veggie options, with the winter months bringing in favorites like sauerkraut, jams, and freshly cured meats. The market even posts a "holiday guide" on its website showcasing all the fantastic holiday deals it has to offer. 

The Farmer's Market helps connect with its small-town past, providing a safe and fun gathering space for all who visit. Click here to learn more about this Olympia staple.