The Bellingham Farmers Market supports local sustainable agriculture by connecting the public with local farmers, artisans and other producers in an economically viable marketplace. What started as a dream for the founding members has grown into one of the largest farmers markets in Washington State, and a destination for both locals and tourists. Their 25th season opens Saturday, April 1 with a fun celebration for the whole family.
A Brief History
In 1992, nine board members consisting of vendors and community members met weekly to plan the Bellingham Farmers Market’s grand opening. The board gained commitments for farmers and craftspeople, which allowed them to approach the City of Bellingham for additional support. City officials recognized that a celebration of local farming in downtown’s urban environment could help revive the area.
The market opened on June 19, 1993 with nearly fifty vendors participating. Mike Finger, the first president of the market and a farmer vendor, initiated the tradition of tossing a cabbage from a city official to a market vendor at the opening of the market season. The tradition, which continues to this day, is modeled after the opening throw at a baseball game.
Depot Market Square was developed through a public/private partnership between the City of Bellingham and local businesses and organizations. The facility pays homage to the former Victorian-style depot that was demolished in 1945. Travelers would arrive on steam engines at the depot and folks all around could hear the bronze bells ringing as they pulled into the station. Busy days at Bellingham Farmers Market harken back to the former hustle and bustle of Railroad Avenue, with the opening bell paying homage to the sound of the trains arriving downtown.
Celebrating 25 Years of Supporting Sustainable Agriculture
“People have Opening Day at the back of their mind,” shared Bellingham Farmers Market Director, Caprice Teske. “As soon as they hear it’s coming, they want to be there. People are really dedicated to coming out for the tradition.”
The 2017 Opening Day will be a joyous celebration of the hard work and commitment of public and private stakeholders and the ongoing support of the community. The block of Railroad Avenue where Depot Market Square is located will be closed to accommodate the busy opening day, making it easier for market-goers to enjoy the festivities.
“It will be a really robust market with a lot of product,” shared Teske. Opening day will feature around 90 vendors, some whom have been longtime market staples while others are brand new this year. All participating market vendors will be encouraged to offer at least one item at 25% off in honor of the 25th Anniversary.
“We’re so excited, I can’t even tell you,” shared Sea Witch Botanicals Cultural Attaché, Cat Carnell. Their business will be vending at Bellingham Farmers Market for the very first time starting on this momentous opening day. “It’s one of the biggest things that’s ever happened to our business.”
Countless local farmers, crafters and artisans have gotten their start at the Bellingham Farmers Market, testing their dreams and ideas with customers who like to support the little guy. Vendors gain confidence and success with sales but they also get opportunities to build relationships with customers and receive valuable feedback.
“We’re going to be able to really interact with people on an ongoing basis,” shared Carnell. “Not only are we going to be able to present our products but then they’ll be able to give us feedback.”
Plus the market helps surrounding businesses thrive by attracting locals and visitors to the downtown core. “It fosters a social life and acts as a gathering place for friends and family,” shared Finger. “Not only is it a place for locals to congregate but the market is also a tourist attraction. The market brings many people to downtown Bellingham that might not come otherwise.”
Learn More about Bellingham’s Past with Historical Walking Tours
Because Bellingham Farmers Market is making history, the Good Time Girls will be launching their 6th historical walking tour season during the opening day celebrations. Their smart and sassy Holly History tours cover a wide variety of topics, focusing specifically on the history of marginalized people in Bellingham including women, people of color and the LGBTQ community.
“Whether it’s tourists or locals, it’s fun to engage the crowd by telling them stories of our unique history,” shared Good Time Girls guide, Hayley Boothe. “They always walk away learning something.”
Tours will meet at the market at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and attendance will be granted on a first-come, first-serve basis until capacity. These tours are free, but a suggested $5 donation will support Good Time Girls guides and their mission of furthering history education in Bellingham. Recommended for ages 12 and up but parents are welcome to use their best discretion.
The opening day of Bellingham Farmers Market’s 25th season is Saturday, April 1, starting with Mayor Kelli Linville’s cabbage toss at 9:45 a.m. See their website for details.
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