Last Montavilla ‘Winter Market’ scheduled for February 9

If you haven’t been to one these ‘off season’ sessions – you really should plan to visit this unique open-air marketplace before it closes …

Julia Babcock and Nadine Appenbrink look happy, as they shop at Kiyokawa Family Orchards.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The weekly Montavilla Farmers Market has proven a vibrant Sunday marketplace during the summer and fall months since they started.

But, a couple of years ago, due to their shoppers’ demand, they also began holding a series of “Winter Stock-up Market” events as well.

Market Manager Gretchan Jackson spends a moment with Derek Hassing of Frog Meadow Farm, which is situated near Canby.

“It’s a two hour, rural style market,” said Market Manager Gretchan Jackson. “We let vendors park behind their booths, to make it easy for them to load and unload. If the weather is really inclement, we let them cancel without any penalty.”

The result? “This year’s is the strongest we’ve had, in terms of vendor participation,” Jackson told East Portland News. “In past seasons, we averaged 17 vendors, and this year, our shoppers have been able to visit 20 to 21 vendors.”

Shoppers at the Montavilla Winter Stock-up Market encounter many vendors, each offering a variety of produce and foods.

The merchandise offered is not all prepared or preserved products, either, she pointed out.

“We still have produce – primarily in-ground crops like carrots, potatoes and garlic. That’s fantastic. Our growers are getting smarter, and learning how to extend their growing season.”

While the winter market attendance doesn’t match the summer markets, “Those who come are serious shoppers. They come with full wallets and leave with full bags – because they are stocking up for the month.”

Jack Kuo offers Lisa Cicala a taste of his new project, Fuller Foods Serious Cheesy Puffs.

There are no chef demos, market merchandise, or community tables, but the SNAP matching fund is still in place – up to $10, Jackson said. “Expect to find what’s seasonal, local, fresh, and direct, in a quick-and easy-one-stop shopping market.”

On Sunday, February 9, they’re holding the last Winter Stock-up Market of the season, for two hours only – between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

It’s held at the same location as the summertime Montavilla Farmers Market – in the 7600 Block of SE Stark Street, just west of the Academy Theater, and across the street from Mr. Plywood. For more information, see their website: CLICK HERE.

-5 Travis Childs sells fresh Henry Higgins Boiled Bagels to Kristin Windensee and Frank Wildensee.

Comments are closed.