The Estacada Farmers Market boasts a balance of produce vendors and artisans.

If you’re a fan of fresh produce, enjoy live music and community togetherness, or you’re just looking for an excuse to get outside, you’ll be happy to know that farmer’s market season is upon us.

The theme for local farmers markets in the Sandy, Mount Hood and Estacada area this year appears to be growth, and providing even more options to make these programs more than just a shopping experience, but a community event and space to spend some quality time.

Tara Nash with the Estacada Farmers Market is excited to introduce the community to new vendors this season, starting on Saturday, May 10.

The market has more than 30 vendors signed up, whether it’s on a rotational basis or every week. With limited space, the market has 30 spaces, and they are all filled for the first market day of the year, and are quickly filling up for the season.

Some of the new vendors Nash mentioned will offer items like homemade dog treats, Costa Rican artisanal salsa, pies, cakes and other baked goods, and more.

The Estacada Farmers Market will return to its dedicated space in front of the Estacada Fire Station, and run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday.

Nash and her team have put an emphasis on keeping a balance of fresh produce vendors and artisans, and this year there will be eight farms involved, selling produce, eggs and berries.

Both opening and closing day, and on the second and fourth Saturdays, the market will offer live music, with locals Rich and Barb performing May 10.

The third Saturday, there will be a free kids’ craft provided, and the last Saturday of the month a pet groomer will provide nail trims at the market.

“We are very thankful that the Farm Direct Nutrition Program will still be offered, and most produce vendors will take those checks” Nash added. “We’re excited to be offering more variety and more farm-fresh produce to our community. We’re also thankful for the city allowing us to use the space that is accessible for shoppers and vendors.”

The Oregon Farm Direct Nutrition Program is a government-facilitated nutrition program serving families who receive WIC resources and income-eligible seniors.

“Farm Direct participants receive vouchers to purchase fresh, locally grown fruit, vegetables and cut, edible herbs directly from participating farmers at farmers markets and farm stands from June through November,” the OHA website explained.

The market is every Saturday through the end of September. The market board is seeking more board members as well as volunteers to help run the markets.

For more information about the Estacada market, volunteering, or to apply to vend, visit estacadafarmersmarket.com.