Bellingham Farmers Market

The Bellingham Farmers Market began as a vision in the early 1990s by two Western Washington University students who wanted to sell locally grown produce in a downtown urban location. With the help of community member Del Lowry and support from key farmers and city officials, the market opened on June 19, 1993, with nearly fifty vendors. The market has since expanded its season and operations, including taking over the Fairhaven Market. It has become one of the largest markets in Washington State and a destination for both locals and tourists.

The market supports local sustainable agriculture by connecting the public with local farmers, artisans, and other producers in an economically viable marketplace.

The market fosters a social life and acts as a gathering place for friends and family, attracting many people to downtown Bellingham. A unique tradition involves a city official throwing a cabbage to a long-standing vendor on opening day.