East Portland’s newest farmer’s market opens in Parkrose

Although it’s a little early for fresh crops to be on sale, see how the market is gearing up to provide fresh foods to outer NE Portland folks all summer long …

Amber Stensen, helping out selling fresh asparagus, rhubarb, radishes, and potatoes, for a Parkrose Farmer’s Market vendor, “The Farm”.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While nothing can replace nostalgic feeling of stepping into Rossi Farm’s barn-like fresh food market, folks in outer NE Portland can still shop for fresh produce – on Saturdays, at the new Parkrose Farmer’s Market.

“It’s important to keep a connection between growers and consumers,” commented Steve Voorhees, the market’s manager when we spoke with him on the grand opening day, May 3.

Greeting us from his family’s mobile food business, Parkrose Farmer’s Market Manager Steve Voorhees says he’s enthusiastic about the season ahead.

Great grand opening
“Today is our grand opening, and it’s looking great. The turnout is good, the weather is cooperating, the crowds are coming through, and the vendors are happy,” Voorhees said.

There were 35 vendors on opening day. “This is our minimum number of vendors,” explained Voorhees. As the season goes on, and more produce becomes available, we’ll be filled to the quarters.”

Linda Robinson is getting a hot, grilled sausage from Shorty Bingham at the Fetzer’s German Sausage booth.

It’s great to see our friend Charles Maes, with Canby Asparagus Farm, at the new Parkrose farmers market. They make really great Mexican food with – and without – asparagus!

Freshly prepared foods available
Many of the vendors were selling prepared foods. From elephant ears, to sausages, to kettle corn – visitors seemed happy to sample their products as they strolled down the aisles.

The market will also feature a limited number local artisans and crafters throughout the season, we were told. “And, we’ve lined up entertainment every week,” said Voorhees.

Everyone is welcome at the market, we learned. However, the organizers ask that people not bring their dogs. “Because of issues with sanitation and insurance, we don’t allow dogs. But we do love dogs – one of our vendors sells custom made doggie treats.”

Entertaining the crowd, on opening day, is the group Jazz Express. They’re also pitching their special fundraising show – teaming up with the Parkrose High choirs on May 18 at Parkrose United Methodist Church, 1111 NE Knott Street. Hear a great program of music for just $5 bucks starting at 2:00 p.m.

Open every Saturday
The Parkrose Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday through the last week in October. The hours are from 8:30 am ’til 2 pm.

It’s located in the Parkrose High School west parking lot on NE Shaver Street, just west of NE 122 Avenue. To find out more CLICK HERE. Or contact Find out more at. Or contact Steve Voorhees at (503) 890-7152 or by e-mailing him at Steve_Voorhees@q.com.

That’s “Freckles the Clown”, creating an artistic design on the face of visitor Markus Zimmer.

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