The Anacortes Farmers Market has been operating at the Depot since 1989. The market’s goal then holds true today: provide locally produced food and promote healthy eating within the community. Today, between 70 and 75 vendors draw about 3,000 visitors every summer Saturday, and for good reason — live music, plenty of food vendors when you want a break from shopping, and the occasional face painter or balloon artist to keep children entertained. The market is dog-friendly, and some vendors even offer treats to pooches. They accept credit cards, debit cards, and EBT cards, as well as cash. If paying with a card, you’ll purchase wooden tokens in $5 increments.
Known For
Being an event with a palpable energy. With the food vendors parked around a gathering of picnic tables, live music, and an expansive lawn for children to run around, you can get your shopping done without feeling like you’re at a grocery store. The Anacortes Farmers Market also does a great job celebrating its opening day in May this year, and hosting special activities like educational programs for kids and the fall Pie Festival.
Northwest Touch
Its practical location for the no-fuss folks. The centrally located Depot is a couple of blocks from downtown and just around the corner from the marina. There’s ample parking on adjacent streets and two parking lots.
Who to See
Visit Johanne from Jalillah’s Cookies. She’s been baking for over 20 years and her confections channel her passion. You’ll find oversized scones, soft cinnamon rolls with generous tubs? of icing, and brownies made with specially procured Swiss cocoa. If you’re lucky enough to get some of her Scandinavian cream cookies before they run out, you’re in for a new, and addictive, treat!
Pick up some seasonal produce from Moondance Farm. The family-ownedand-operated farm is nestled in the foothills of Mt. Baker. They grow only organic and often have heirloom varieties for sale.
Stop by to say hi to Dottie Thomas of Dots (not Dot’s, right?) Stuff. She knits customized socks for patrons. Simply choose your favorite yarn and let her know your shoe size. Women’s socks take two days, while men’s take three days.
Must-Haves
Check out the organic produce from Frog’s Song Farm. Owned by Nate O’Neil and run by him, his wife, and their daughter, the Fir Island farm brings to market a variety of seasonal produce. Their newest items are antioxidant-rich yacons (slightly sweet, potato-like roots) that add a fresh element to any salad.
Get a snack from Vivi’s Kitchen. They serve authentic Mexican cuisine, holding true to their claim with handmade corn tortillas, fresh pico de gallo, and traditional ingredients. That incredible smell? It’s Vivi’s charcoal fire. She adds some onion directly into the charcoal to flavor the smoke that envelopes the slow-roasting meat.
Pick up a bar of goat milk soap from North Whidbey Farm. Owned and operated by Kimberley Christensen, the company is dedicated to providing customers natural, sustainable soap products. There’s an array of scents to choose from, like Honey & Lemon, Lavender, and even Peppermint Scrub with a loofah embedded into the soap.
The Depot 7th St. & R Ave., Anacortes
Saturdays, May 6–Oct. 28, 9 am–2 pm Winter Market every 2nd Sat., Jan.–Apr.
Opening Day: May 6 | anacortesfarmersmarket.org
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