‘Winter Markets’ to continue at Montavilla Farmers Market

Find out why this outer East Portland outdoor marketplace is up and running, year ‘round …

Folks come from all over the area to shop at the Montavilla Farmers Market Winter Stock-up Market.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Every other Sunday, the vacant lot on SE Stark Street, across from the big Mr. Plywood store, comes alive with activity, as the Montavilla Farmers Market (MFM) sets up their “Winter Stock-up Markets” for neighbors.

No matter the weather, the MFM is operating throughout the winter every first and third Sunday of each month, providing a wide variety of food and products to their community, according to Market Manager Lisa Hall.

Helping customers are MFM Market Manager Lisa Hall and coworker Jeff Betts.

“Our ‘Winter Markets’ are going really great; our community has definitely stepped up to support all of our vendors in our market,” Hall tells East Portland News. “January through April, people can expect to find at least 35 vendors, all spread out on out on our nice big lot – providing lots of space for social distancing.”

Blynda Barnett of Red Truck Homestead, located in the Parkrose neighborhood, shows a bunch of winter greens grown on their property – and harvested that very morning.

No matter whether there’s rain, wind, or snow, the market goes on Hall says, “Because, here in Montavilla, customers are famous for coming out in all kinds of weather – even in really bad weather – to shop with our vendors. And, our vendors continue to remark how the community of Montavilla, and neighborhoods far beyond, really come out to support them.”

Shoppers can expect to find produce, such as hearty greens, squashes, and root vegetables, Hall remarks. This is supplemented with baked goods, artisan food products, fresh mushrooms, and hot food from vendors. Plus, ranchers regularly bring in animal products, too.

Shopper Tamara Metz, who says she walked to the MFM from her home in the Richmond neighborhood, here purchases veggies from Samantha Orive at the ever-popular Fiddlehead Farm stand.

“It’s important to continue the market through the winter months, because it provides a sales outlet for our farmers, helping them have a more stable income throughout the year,” acknowledges Hall. “And it is really great for shoppers, too, who continue to enjoy an open air environment where they can support local businesses.”

So, consider the MFM as a tasty alternative, two Sundays a month until May – when their weekly markets resume.

Montavilla Farmers Market

“Winter Stock-up Markets”
1st and 3rd Sundays ~ 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Please follow their COVID-19 coronavirus protocols.
In the 7700 block of SE Stark Street
For more information, see their official website: CLICK HERE.

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