The 2018 season of Renton Farmers Market opens 3 p.m. on June 5 at the Renton Piazza Park.
Now in its 17th year, the market promises Renton residents all the goodies — fruits, vegetables, flowers, food stalls, entertainment and more every Tuesday until Sept. 25.
Even if this is your first time or your 17th time at the market, here’s what’s new this year.
Logan Avenue South will be closed, between Piazza Park and Gateway Park, on Tuesdays during the market’s operational hours. So make sure you plan your commute accordingly.
FOOD ACCESS FOR ALL
In their attempt to make the market accessible for as many residents as possible, the market continues the use of EBT, SNAP and Basic Food cards. New this year is the unlimited match for SNAP benefits. Previously it was limited to a $10 dollar-for-dollar match.
“That’s an amazing boost for those in our community who are relying on their benefits to help feed their families,” said Carrie Olson, market manager.
At the market manager booth, staff will swipe your EBT/SNAP card for a requested amount and receive tokens that can be spend like cash with vendors.
ENTERTAINMENT
Attendees at the opening day can listen to the sweet tunes of Hazen High School jazz band from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Other local musicians including Biff Moss, Femmes Fatale, Sunday Speedtrap, Susanna Fuller, and more will take the stage each Tuesday from 5:30 to 6 p.m. at the main stage.
To check out the full list, visit https://www.rentonfarmersmarket.com/thisseason.php.
If you’d like to know how you can best utilize the produce available at the market, don’t miss cooking demonstrations held by Washington State University Extension’s nutrition education program “Food $ense.” These demonstrations are targeted to teach families nutrition basics and smart buying strategies “to help them make healthy choices and sustain their food supply throughout the month,” according to their website.
THIS YEAR’S HARVEST
Want to know what the fruit, nut and berry harvest schedule is this season? Visit http://www.rentonfarmersmarket.com/docs/PugetSoundFresh-Harvest-Schedule.pdf for more information.
FOR KIDS
If the little ones aren’t satisfied at looking at vegetables and fruits, the Kid’s Patch might be the place for them. The area will be open each market day for kids to engage with activities and games.
FOR ADULTS
While the kids play, adults can enjoy the wine and/or beet rasting booths that will be in the main market the entire season.
HOW TO GET THERE
Renton transit center is north of the market. There is two-hour free parking available at the Renton’s City Center Parking Garage on 655 S. Second St.
For more information about the Renton Farmers Market, visit http://www.rentonfarmersmarket.com/ or call 425-430-7214. The market is open every Tuesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at 233 Burnett Ave. S.
