Renton Farmers Market Kicks Off 10th Season Today, June 7

Summer is just around the corner, and drawing closer by the day as flowers bloom, the ground dries out, and Pacific Northwesterners glow with early-season sunburns.

is yet another indicator of warmer, longer days to come, and it starts today at 2:45 p.m. at the Piazza along South 3rd Street and Burnett Avenue South, adjacent to the Renton Transit Center. 

Mayor Denis Law, a hearty cadre of market volunteers, vendors and shoppers will gather to ring in the market's 10th season, which will run each Tuesday from 3-7 p.m. through September 27.

"We’re really excited about the opportunities available for customers to get the ‘total market experience,’ from healthy food choices to family entertainment at the downtown market and wellness information at the Valley Medical Center market,“ said , the city’s new Farmers Market Coordinator, in a press release.

More than 55 vendors will offer their best selections at the Renton Farmers Market, include grass-fed beef and pork, cheese, eggs, honey, fresh-cut flowers, baked goods, herbs and locally grown fruits and vegetables. The market also includes chef demonstrations, kids’ activities, live entertainment and tips from Master Gardeners.

The Renton Farmers Market is an economic driver for the city; vendors’ gross sales average $19,000 per week, according to the City's Economic Development Office. Surveys conducted in 2008 and 2009, revealed that about two-thirds of market shoppers also stopped in another downtown Renton businesses before or after the market.

“The Renton Farmers Market is the place where you can buy locally grown goods, promote healthy living and the environment and support local farmers, while also helping to energize our downtown,” said Linda Middlebrooks, President of Piazza Renton in a press release. The Piazza supplies the lion's share of market volunteers.

, will host a second market this year. It'll take place on Sundays from June 12 through September 18 from noon to 4 p.m. off Talbot Road in the parking lot adjacent to the Talbot Professional Center at 4011 Talbot Road South.  

Details for the Renton Farmers Market, June 7:

Schedule:

2:45 - Bell-ringing and official start to the Farmers Market Season

3:00 - Renton Farmers Market opens for business

7:00 - End of Farmers Market (until next week!)

Parking:

Garage - First two hours are free; paid thereafter

Street - Most spaces near the Piazza are free, but limited to two hours