Discover what’s happening at this great outer East Portland farmers market – including Thanksgiving and Holiday Festivals, yet to come this season …
Welcoming shoppers to the Lents International Farmers Market Harvest Festival their unique musical styling is Dumpster Joe (and friend).
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Attracting many families to the Lents International Farmers Market (LIFM) on November 10 was their annual Harvest Festival. It featured arts and crafts by East Portland Collective, live music, and fruit sampling.
“It’s been so good to be in our permanent spot here in Lents Town Center, provided to us here in the parking lot of The Zed,” affirmed LIFM Market Manager Amber Holland.
Javier and Christina with Tamales Poblanos spend a moment with Amber Holland, Portland Farmers Market Operations Director, and LIFM market manager.
Sellwood resident Kea Charmak buys squash and other veggies from Adrianna Moreno of Empowered Flowers and I-Farm in Canby.
“Today is especially fun, as we’re celebrating our fall produce and fruit, and sampling pumpkin treats and squash tarts,” Holland told East Portland News. “And today, we have a special ‘guest vendor’ – Empowered Flowers, a woman-owned, certified-organic grower from Oregon City.”
With The Zed bay doors open, many shoppers went inside to enjoy prepared food that they’d purchased at the market, and chat with one another.
At one of the tables in The Zed bay, visitors are making art by doing “leaf rubbings” with help from folks at the East Portland Collective.
“The market has been really good this year.” reflected Holland. “The vendors are reporting good sales, which is what we want to hear. And, we are seeing new faces each week, coming to explore the market.”
Typically, about 700 shoppers visit their dozen-or-so vendors every week. “That number goes up quite a bit when we’re hosting special events, like the Lents Cultural Fair,” Holland pointed out.
In the Food Hero booth with kids’ activities is Rebecca Rich with the Oregon State University Extension Service.
“All of our core vendors – our long-time farmer friends – are all telling they want to come back next year,” observed Holland.
November 24: Lents International Thanksgiving Farmers Market
From 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on November 24, come shop at their Thanksgiving Market! Get farm-fresh vegetables, fruit, and prepared foods for your Holiday table.
Helena Kruger prepares to chip apples that will be squeezed into fresh cider, at the LIFM Harvest Festival.
December 15: Lents International Farmers Market Holiday Market
Shifted an hour later than usual – from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., for the first time ever – they’re hosting a special market, just in time for the Holidays!
In addition to the regular lineup of farmers bringing seasonal fruits and veggies, there’ll be much more. Enjoy craft activities provided by members of the East Portland Collective. And, shop among the “makers” and “crafters” who’ll be selling great Christmas and Holiday gifts
CLICK HERE to see their webpage for more information. They’re in Lents Town Center, on SE 92nd Avenue, a block north of SE Foster Road at Reedway Street – right across from Fire Station 11.
© 2024 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
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