Ah, Seattle. Where it rains 90% of the time, and the remaining 10% is just waiting for the rain to start.
Yet, amidst all this gray, we have a shining beacon of hope: our farmers markets.
These markets are filled with:
- Fresh produce
- Artisan goods
- Local charm
They’re the lifeline for those of us who prefer our kale organic and our honey unpasteurized.
If you are interested in these as well, and you do not know where to start, I’ll be your guide for today. Buckle up and let’s go.
Year-Round Farmers Markets
First, let us take a look at the year-round farmer’s markets.
University District
- Location: 5031 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
- Working Hours: Sat: 9 am – 2 pm
- Contact: +1 206-632-5234
With over 80 vendors, The University District Farmers Market is the largest food-only marketplace around.
Chefs and foodies flock here like it’s some sort of pilgrimage. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood to exotic mushrooms.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot a local celebrity chef pretending to be one of us, mere mortals. It’s the perfect place to feel superior about your food choices.
West Seattle
- Location: Cnr SW Alaska St &, California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
- Working Hours: Sun: 10 am – 2 pm
- Contact: +1 206-632-5234
West Seattle farmers market hosts up to 70 vendors, offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted jewelry.
It’s the ideal spot for those who enjoy getting soaked while pretending to enjoy the “community spirit.”
Sadly, I do not visit the West Seattle farmers market frequently, but whenever I am near, I do, and I enjoy it thoroughly.
Do not forget your reusable bags and a hefty dose of patience, because nothing says “weekend fun” like jostling through a crowd for organic strawberries.
Capitol Hill
- Location: E Barbara Bailey Way, Seattle, WA 98112
- Working Hours:
- Sun: 11 am – 3 pm
- Tue: 3 pm – 7 pm
- Contact: +1 206-547-2278
Capitol Hill is one of the best examples of a lively market with fresh produce and a community vibe.
Picture this: hipsters, families, and old-timers all mingling together, all while a street musician butchers Bob Dylan songs in the background.
It’s the place to be if you want to feel part of something bigger while sipping on an overpriced kombucha.
Ballard
- Location: 5345 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
- Working Hours: Sun: 9 am – 2 pm
- Contact: /
It’s the first year-round market in Seattle, set against the backdrop of historic cobblestone streets.
You can almost hear the whispers of Ballard’s maritime past as you navigate through artisanal cheese stalls and organic vegetable stands.
It’s the quintessential Seattle experience—if you can manage to find parking.
Seasonal Farmers Markets
Seasonal farmer’s markets are quite numerous in Seattle. Let me guide you through the best-known ones:
Madrona
- Location: 1126 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Seattle, WA 98122
- Working Hours: Fri: 3 pm – 7 pm
- Contact: /
Madrona Farmers Market is the perfect spot for those who enjoy the thrill of seasonal produce and artisan foods.
The market is small but mighty, offering a variety of items that make you feel like a true gourmet chef—if only for a day.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to start your weekend by pretending you’re healthier than you are.
Wallingford
- Location: 4800 Meridian Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
- Working Hours: Wed: 3 pm – 7 pm
- Contact: +1 206-781-6776
Wallingford is family-friendly with a playground and was awarded “Best Farmers Market” in 2013. It’s like the Disneyland of farmers markets—minus the rides and the fun. The playground is a hit with the kids while you get to browse a wide selection of fresh produce and artisanal products. Perfect for those looking to add a little excitement to their midweek routine.
Columbia City
- Location: 37th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
- Working Hours:
- Wed: 3 pm – 7 pm (May 1 – October 9, 2024)
- Second Sat: 10 am – 2 pm (November – April)
- Contact: +1 206-632-5234
Columbia City offers a diverse selection of food and produce, reflecting the vibrant community it serves.
It’s a feast for the senses—if your senses enjoy a mix of exotic spices, fresh vegetables, and the occasional street performer.
I’ve been to Columbia City farmers market only recently, and I really liked it. I’ll return soon.
Lake City
- Location: NE 125th St &, 28th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125
- Working Hours: Thu: 3 pm – 7 pm
- Contact: +1 206-632-5234
Lake City Farmers Market runs every Thursday from 3 pm to 7 pm, June through October, at NE 125th & 28th NE, next to the Library.
It’s a family-friendly event featuring local produce and activities for kids.
If you’ve ever dreamed of buying organic apples while your children get their faces painted, this is your dream come true.
It’s a wholesome, slightly chaotic way to spend a Thursday afternoon.
Phinney
- Location: 6761 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
- Working Hours: Fri: 3 pm – 7 pm
- Contact: +1 206-547-2278
Phinney Farmers Market is known for its local produce, live music, and a playground next door.
Imagine shopping for farm-fresh goods while being serenaded by local musicians who may or may not have actual talent. It’s all part of the charm, right?
Bring the kids, grab some kale, and enjoy the experience.
Magnolia
- Location: West McGraw Street, 33rd Ave W, Seattle, WA 98199
- Working Hours: Sat: 10 am – 2 pm
- Contact: +1 206-547-2278
Magnolia Farmers Market is a lively gathering hub for the community, offering a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
If you’re looking for a market that feels like a quaint village fair, this is it.
It’s a delightful way to pretend you’re living in a small town while still in the big city.
Summary
One of the best things about Seattle is the number of farmers markets, period.
While they might not seem like such a good thing at first, trust me, you will have the same opinion as me when you visit one of them.
They offer a lot, and not visiting them is simply a mistake.