Why Visit Central Oregon’s Farmers Markets This Weekend?
Why Mentorship Matters for New Real Estate Agents
Life Is Busy — But This Is Worth Slowing Down For
We get it. Between work, errands, kids, and trying to keep up with life, it’s so tempting to just do a quick grocery run and call it good. But hear us out — farmer’s markets aren’t just a “cute idea.” Shopping local is one of the easiest, most feel-good ways to support your community and boost your local economy.
And in Central Oregon, we’re lucky — we have some amazing markets that make shopping local feel like an actual treat, not another chore.
1. Farm-to-Table Freshness You Can Taste
The #1 reason we love farmer’s markets? Freshness.
That bunch of kale or carton of eggs wasn’t sitting in a warehouse or truck for weeks. It was harvested days — sometimes hours — before you got your hands on it. And this isn’t just about fruits and veggies. Meats, cheeses, breads — they’re all fresher and better tasting.
Here’s something wild: most grocery store produce is chosen for shelf life and transportability, not flavor or nutrition. So what you’re buying at the farmer’s market isn’t just fresher — it’s actually better for you and tastes amazing.
2. Support Your Neighbors and Local Dreamers
Every dollar spent at the farmer’s market stays local. It supports small farms, makers, and family-owned businesses — people who live in your neighborhood, whose kids go to school with yours, whose faces you’ll start to recognize week after week.
And let’s be honest, doesn’t it feel better handing your money to someone who’s poured their heart into their products, instead of a faceless corporation?
3. The Best Kind of Community Vibes
This is a big one for us. Farmer’s markets aren’t just about buying things — they’re about connection.
You run into your friends, neighbors, your kids’ classmates and their parents. You talk to the vendors, who learn your name and remember what you bought last week. There’s live music, delicious food, drinks, and usually a few dogs and strollers in the mix.
It’s not just a market — it’s a vibe.
4. Unique Finds You Won’t Get Anywhere Else
Farmer’s markets are a treasure hunt.
You’ll find:
Small-batch sauces and jams
Handmade jewelry and pottery
Freshly baked breads and pastries
Locally roasted coffee
Organic dog treats
One-of-a-kind home goods and gifts
You just never know what you’ll find — and that’s half the fun.
5. Eat With the Seasons
Eating seasonally isn’t just trendy — it’s actually good for you. Your body craves different nutrients in different seasons, and farmer’s markets help you tap into that natural rhythm.
Shopping what’s in season:
Supports sustainable farming
Encourages creativity in the kitchen
Tastes way better
6. Sustainability, One Purchase at a Time
Many local farmers use organic, low-impact, or regenerative farming methods. So when you shop at a farmer’s market, you’re casting a vote for:
Cleaner air
Healthier soil
A better, more sustainable food system
One small decision — big long-term impact.
7. It’s Just Plain Fun
Let’s face it: grocery shopping is a chore. Farmer’s markets? They’re an event.
Bright colors, fresh smells, free samples, good music, and happy people. Bring the kids. Bring your dog. Bring a coffee and wander. Even if you don’t need anything, it’s worth going just to soak it all in.
Where to Find the Best Farmer’s Markets in Central Oregon
We’ve got some incredible ones in our area. Here’s a quick guide:
🌿 Bend - Northwest Crossing
When: Saturdays, 10 AM–2 PM (late May to mid-October)
Where: Compass Park
Vibe: Great for families, beautiful artisan goods, amazing produce
🌿 Downtown Bend Farmer’s Market
When: Wednesdays, 11 AM–3 PM (mid-May to mid-October)
Where: Brooks Alley (between Franklin & Minnesota)
Vibe: Smaller market but mighty, close to Drake Park
🌿 Redmond Farmer’s Market
When: Tuesdays, 3 PM–6 PM (mid-June to mid-September)
Where: Centennial Park
Vibe: Live music, local crafts, great energy
🌿 Sisters Farmer’s Market
When: Sundays, 10 AM–2 PM
Where: First Street Park
Vibe: Artisan town feel, super cute, local goods galore
🌿 La Pine Farmer’s Market
When: Saturdays, 9 AM–1 PM (June–September)
Where: La Pine Park & Rec
Vibe: Laid-back, great produce, welcoming community
🌿 BONUS: Worthy Brewing Market (East Bend)
When: Sundays
Vibe: New as of 2025, craft beer, local goods, live music
🌿 BONUS: Sunriver Market
Where: South of Bend
Vibe: Perfect excuse for a little day trip!