Farmer's Market & Street Fair in Eugene, Oregon

When we get to a new area we do a little research to find the local farmer's market. Many communities are too cold in the winter months to grow local produce, but since Spring has sprung, we found a great local farmer's market that offered more than we expected. Downtown Eugene hosts the 'Saturday Market', one of the oldest in the country - open since 1970, from April through October, rain or shine. It's an outdoor celebration of art, ethnic food, and crafts.

The Saturday Market in Eugene is none like you'll ever experience. Local vendors sell crafts, gifts, clothing and one-of-a-kind "Eugene" things. They have a large variety of items from organic, recycled, pesticide-free, free-range, home made, original handcrafted, unusual and more. Either the artist or a member of their family staffs the booths so you are able to meet the artists. There is a city block of local produce and flowers, another of handcrafted items, and another block of international delicacies, although I did not see hamburgers or hot dogs.

In addition to handmade crafts and homemade foods, you will find tye dyes galore, hippies from the '60s, hippies from the 2000's (and everywhere in between). Everyone from college students to families go to the market. There is a stage where live musical acts perform, some invited and some not.

City regulations prohibit animals in the market area. There's an easy to find public parking structure that is free. We enjoyed meeting the artists and were inspired by their creative talents. If anything, go for the great food and people watching.