Visit the Columbia City Farmers’ Market.

Each Wednesday during open season, Wade and Judy Bennett pack up their truck and make the 35-minute drive from their orchard in Enumclaw to the Columbia City Farmers’ Market. The Bennetts specialize in what Wade describes as “exotic and adventurous” produce including Asian pears, wasabi, Japanese turnips and, at last count, 40 types of tomatoes.

While Wade participates in various markets around Seattle, Columbia City market is his favorite. “It’s the United Nations of farmers’ markets, a melting pot of ethnicity,” explains Wade. “I know all my customers by name — they’re like family.”

Wade is one of approximately four dozen vendors at the market. On average, around 2,300 people visit the market weekly, drawn by the visual and aromatic feast of farm tables overflowing with the region’s finest and freshest. The stock of products changes seasonally and includes organically grown fruits and vegetables, freshly cut flowers, eggs, shellfish, cheeses, fish, jams, baked goods — even live ducks.

In addition to the vendors, the market hosts weekly events such as cooking demonstrations, tastings, live music, and engaging activities for children. Local non-profit organizations are also on hand to answer questions and pass out information.

Karen Kinney is the coordinator for the Columbia City market and explains that it was modeled after California’s farmers’ markets which sell only food products. “Studies have shown this type of market is better for local farmers, because people come to the market focused on buying their food for the week,” says Karen. “It reflects our vision for the market which is to build on the community spirit of the neighborhood, bring visitors into the area from other parts of Seattle and outlying neighborhoods, and support Puget Sound’s farmers.”

The Columbia City Farmers’ Market is located in the Columbia Plaza, 4801 Rainier Ave. South at South Edmunds. It is open from 3pm to 7pm every Wednesday from May 11 to October 26.

Come see for yourself why the Columbia City Farmers’ Market is the favorite among local farmers and stop by Wade’s Rockridge Orchard stand for a taste of the exotic.

www.seattlefarmersmarkets.org