Montavilla Farm Market opens early

Wait no more! See what’s in store for you at the Montavilla Farmers Market this season …

Even in the rain, folks from all over outer East Portland flock to opening day at the Montavilla Farmers Market.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Unlike in past years, the Montavilla Farmers Market opened early, on May 15.

It was a damp, drizzly day, but that didn’t stop shoppers from demonstrating their enthusiasm for the neighborhood farmers market.

Montavilla Farmers Market Manager Amanda Cross spends a moment – under cover – with volunteer Leslie Sullivan.

Asked to define the climate, Market Manager Amanda Cross said, “Wet! But still, it’s a bustling market today. Portlanders, and especially those here in Montavilla who support our market, show up – even in the rain.”

Their vendors requested that they open earlier this year, Cross remarked, “and we know our community is ready to buy, so here we are.”

Tayne Reeve with Fiddlehead Farm sells fresh produce to shoppers Ryan Ostler and Kat Zacher.

Dave Srisapaorn cooks a savory treat at the Cafe de Crêpe booth.

They started off the season with 37 vendors on opening day, Cross told East Portland News. “It’s a few less than usual, but that’s because we started three weeks earlier than we have in the past. Not all of the vendors are quite ready with their produce yet, but – as you can see – many of them are.”

The market has “totally revamped” the way they work with helpers, and are welcoming new and returning volunteers, she said. “We have lots of new ways to get involved with the market – check them out on our website.”

Gopal Thomas, Vyasa Thomas, and Chris Simmonds from Simplicity Gardens say they’re ready for another growing season at the market.

They’re continuing their Snap Match program with funding, so it will be available all through their season, Cross said. “And, this summer, we’re hosting kids’ activities with POP – “Power Of Produce”. All the youngsters who participate get a $5 token to spend with the farmers, when they come to the market.”

Montavilla Farmers Market
+ Every Sunday – 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
+ 7600 Block of SE Stark St., across Mr. Plywood
+ For more information, to see their “Dog Friendly” policy, or look at the astounding variety of vendors there this week, see their website: CLICK HERE.

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