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Wallingford Farmers Market has been recognized as one of the best farmers markets in the state. One of the many great reasons to live in Wallingford (and perhaps my favorite) is this seasonal farmers market. I look forward to Wednesdays for a little walk to Meridian Playground, 4920 Meridian Avenue N, never knowing what I might find: running into friends and neighbors, buying produce for the week, or finding a delicious meal for dinner at one of the many food stalls. The offerings are plentiful—fruit, vegetables, wine and cider, ice cream and popsicles, music, and more! This season kicks off on the Wednesday after Memorial Day and will continue each week through the end of September. Per the organizers, market hours for 2026 are 3 to 7 pm.

I have long wondered why Seattle has two different groups managing the markets around the city. Seattle has multiple farmers market operators because the organizations were formed at various times to serve specific neighborhood needs and missions. Our market in Wallingford is part of the Seattle Farmers Market Association, which also runs markets in Ballard, Madison Park, South Lake Union, and the Central District (FKA Madrona). The group was founded in 1990 at the Fremont Sunday Market and had a vision to build farmers markets that would become the weekly center of each community served. By providing a regular weekly event, these markets contribute to developing positive relationships, building strong communities, and enhancing the quality of life for everyone in the region. Their mission is to provide fun and rewarding venues for Washington state small farms and artisans to bring their highest quality, locally-grown and crafted products to urban residents.

A second group operating markets in Seattle is the Neighborhood Farmers Market Alliance (known as the Neighborhood Farmers Markets), a community-based, independent, non-profit organization. Formed in 1993, this group manages markets in the University District, West Seattle, Capitol Hill, Columbia City, Lake City, Phinney, and Magnolia. Their mission is to support and strengthen Washington’s small, sustainable family farms by creating and operating vibrant, neighborhood-scale markets where farmers and food producers can sell their goods, develop relationships with customers, and grow their capacity to produce local ingredients and artisanal products. Beyond operating markets, they actively support farmers, educate consumers, and advocate for policies that make producing, selling, acquiring, and eating good food easier.

Both of these groups are members of the Washington State Farmers Market Association. Founded in 1979, the WSFMA is a non-profit organization that works with 110 member farmers markets across the state to bring local, healthy food to communities and direct sales to farmers, artisans, and other small businesses throughout Washington.

There are many reasons to support farmers markets. You might find a new food item you have never tried before. You will be getting seasonal food at peak freshness with maximum nutritional benefit. You get to know where your food comes from, promote humane treatment of animals, and maybe even get some cooking tips or new meal ideas. Our Wednesday market provides a weekly meeting place for neighbors to gather outside and enjoy the great bounty of our state. By participating and supporting our market, we all help support the stability and security of our farmlands and small businesses.

So go out on Wednesdays and meet your farmers and other local producers. Supporting local farms makes our communities more welcoming, more food-secure, and much more delicious. See you there!