Farmers Market at PSU

Students and local residents shop for goods at PSU's Farmers Market in the park blocks

One of my favorite things about attending Portland State University is its location in the hub of downtown Portland.  There are so many things to do and see between classes, all within walking distance both on and off campus.  One of those activities includes the Farmers Market in the PSU park blocks on Wednesdays and Saturdays. 

With the increasing awareness of the dangers in genetically modified foods and the efforts to play our part in reducing our carbon footprints, many of us are turning toward our local farmers for food and plant resources.  The Farmers Market is one-stop shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables, garden starts, flowers, honey, jams, meats, eggs, and much more.  With this growing knowledge, so grows the Farmer’s Markets across the country, and PSU just happens to host one of the best markets inPortland.

            I ventured down this last weekend in search of fruit and vegetables, honey, vegetable starts for my garden, and hanging flowers pots for mother’s day gifts. Despite the on and off rain events, the market was packed with students and local residents.   

            I chatted with a few PSU students while I waited in various lines, asking how they could afford the higher price of food at the Market on our ever-slimming student budgets.  The consensus is in the priority to our health and the meaning behind our purchases.  There is a feeling of satisfaction in knowing what we are buying and in supporting local farms.  PSU students have this advantage because of the university’s location, and not every college out there can boast that they offer this benefit to students.

            Overall, the Farmer’s Market has been an enlightening experience for me.  I’d love to hear your thoughts on the Market.

3 thoughts on “Farmers Market at PSU

  1. I love the PSU market! It definitely highlights my Saturdays. I’ve gone down to the one at Pioneer market and it’s not the same. Not too many vendors (limited selection of organics), higher prices, and the vibe is completely different. The one at PSU feels more like an event and everyone is in such a great mood. It’s addicting.

  2. Generally I like the Market, but I don’t like that they block the main access through Montgomery Street…I rather wish they would put booths on only one side rather than both sides of the cross streets, so that those of us just passing through could easily due so (especially when its raining and we’d rather not end up with overly muddied shoes as we may be off to events that require cleanliness).
    Over all, though, I’m glad its there.

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