Lents market reports ‘awesome season’

Here’s the wrap-up report for the Lents International Farmers Market this year. And, learn how you can become a vendor at this outer East Portland mart next year …

Even on the last day of their extended season, there was a good turnout of shoppers and vendors at the Lents International Farmers Market.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

It was its longest continuous season ever, from June until November 18, for the Lents International Farmers Market – as it gained community acceptance, and provided quality produce and prepared foods to throngs of grateful customers.

“The months of June and August were definitely the height of season, but we are incredibly pleased with the numbers of shoppers we saw each week, and the support from the community into late fall,” exclaimed Portland Farmers Market Community Engagement Manager Heather Morrill.

Providing a lively soundtrack for the market is the Supadupa Marimba Bros. band.

A Lents neighbor from east of I-205, Holly Gorton helps her youngsters Lilly and Henry with crafts at the Food Scouts pavilion.

“Extending our market season this year better met the needs of our farmers, which is exciting,” Morrill told East Portland News.

Thanks to the use of the paved Zoiglhaus Brewery lot, just off SE Foster Road along SE 92nd Avenue, more than 20,000 shoppers visited the market this year, according to Market Coordinator Amber Peoples.

At the Community Table, avid gardener Richard Dickinson shows some of the fresh garlic, gown in his Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood yard, that’s selling quickly.

“After an awesome pilot trial this year, expect more ‘Chef in the Market’ demonstrations at this market in 2019, and also exciting new programs – such as ‘Kids Cook at the Market; on-site classes for ages 7-11 years,” Morrill said.

While the market is expecting all of its current vendors to return next season, Morrill commented that they are accepting new vendor applications from now through January 11.

Want to be a vendor at this lively farmers market next year? Now is the time to apply!

To apply online, see their official webpage: CLICK HERE. Or, contact the Portland Farmers Market central office (they provide management services for the Lents market) at (503) 241-0032.

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