It’s hard to beat summers in the South Sound, and farmers markets are just one wonderful side effect of this beautiful season. Beginning as early as April and running as late as December, local vendors bring fresh produce, handmade goods and tasty fare out nearly every day of the week during the Pacific Northwest’s sweetest season. Farmers markets offer a fun rain-or-shine experience for all ages that is equal parts commerce and community.

Farmers markets are community gathering places, open-air venues with all the ambiance of European markets and all the wholesome fun of a street fair. These free events are designed to introduce people to local businesses, farmers and artisans to promote agriculture and community vitality. Events like these nurture small businesses, promote sustainable lifestyle options, and keep local dollars in our community.

More than a dozen farmers markets assemble this time of year — a heavy concentration of which are centrally located in and around Tacoma. Every venue, however, has its own unique charm and appeal.