Mount Vernon Farmers MarketRecently opened

Description

If you find yourself along the Skagit River in Washington, make sure to set aside a morning—or better yet, the whole afternoon—to explore the recently opened Mount Vernon Farmers Market. Located at P52150 in the heart of Mount Vernon, WA, this bustling market has quickly become a favorite stop for both locals and travelers. As someone who has wandered many farmers’ markets, I found this one especially inviting, thanks to its cheerful community vibe and unique setting right beside the river.

The market’s layout is easy to navigate, with wide, paved walkways that welcome strollers, wheelchairs, and carts alike. Even on busy weekends, the open-air design means you rarely feel crowded. If you ask me, browsing for artisanal bread or fat strawberries while listening to mellow live music beside the river is about as relaxing as it gets in western Washington.

The Mount Vernon Farmers Market isn’t just about produce (though you’ll see plenty of jewel-toned berries, crisp greens, and rainbow carrots). Here, local vendors set up cheerful booths overflowing with homemade goods, handcrafted jewelry, farm-fresh eggs, and even stacks of pancakes made to order. Every week, I find something unexpected—like a new cheese from a family-run creamery or an herbal tea blend with wild-foraged ingredients.

What sets this farmers market apart is its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Whether you’re paying with debit card, SNAP/EBT, or traditional credit cards, every vendor is ready to accommodate. Plus, with wheelchair accessible entrances and parking, it’s an easy outing for everyone.

Key Features

• Direct Waterfront Setting: Few farmers markets come with such a scenic riverfront location. Enjoy sweeping views while you sip local coffee or sample cheese.
• Wide Range of Local Vendors: From organic berries to handcrafted soaps, each vendor brings something unique, often harvested or made within driving distance of Mount Vernon.
• Fresh Pancakes On-site: This is a detail I wish more markets adopted! Families and breakfast lovers line up early for fresh pancakes topped with market berries.
• Live Music Performances: Most market days feature local musicians—acoustic folk, jazz trios, or indie singer-songwriters. The music never drowns out conversation but adds a pleasant backdrop.
• Accessibility and Payment Options: All walkways are wheelchair accessible. Vendors accept debit cards, credit cards, and SNAP/EBT.
• Seasonal Bounty: Depending on when you go, look for strawberries, raspberries, fresh greens, flowers, or summer squash picked the morning of your visit.

Best Time to Visit

The Mount Vernon Farmers Market typically comes alive late spring through early fall, with the peak months between May and September. Each season brings its own charms, but if you’re hoping to fill your basket with fresh berries, mid-June through July is a safe bet. I’ve found that arriving just as the market opens (usually around 9 AM on Saturdays) means you’ll get the widest selection, especially when it comes to baked goods and berries.

Weekends tend to draw the biggest crowds, especially when the weather is sunny. However, there’s still a laid-back, welcoming energy, never frenzied. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting in the last hour can still be rewarding—some vendors may even offer end-of-day specials.

For music lovers, check the market’s bulletin board on arrival—scheduled performances can definitely shape your visit. I’ve caught impromptu bluegrass jams and even a children’s singalong. If your goal is leisurely browsing and good conversation with the vendors, cloudy or drizzly mornings are a delight; most vendors pitch tents, and fewer visitors means more one-on-one time.

How to Get There

Getting to Mount Vernon Farmers Market is straightforward, whether you’re coming from Seattle or exploring the wider Skagit Valley. The market is set at P52150, right by the river, just a short walk from downtown Mount Vernon. If you’re driving, freeway access is easy via I-5, with signs for downtown Mount Vernon guiding you to parking lots (including ample wheelchair-accessible spaces).

Once you’ve parked, it’s an easy stroll to the market entrance. Even on busy weekends, I rarely have trouble finding parking in one of the adjacent lots. Prefer to travel by bicycle? Mount Vernon is bike-friendly, and bike racks are just outside the main entrance. Several public transit routes also serve downtown, making this a great car-free excursion as well.

For travelers on foot, crossing the Skagit River pedestrian bridge delivers a beautiful lead-up to the market. Morning light on the river and the smell of fresh pastries is a pairing you’ll remember.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring Your Own Bags: Most vendors encourage reusable bags. I sometimes tuck in a small cooler for cheese and other perishable treats.
• Come Hungry: Between the breakfast pancakes, empanadas, and pastry stalls, it’s hard to leave without sampling something. Arrive hungry and treat yourself to a meal.
• Chat With the Growers: Many vendors here enjoy talking about their produce, methods, or recipes. Ask how they recommend preparing an ingredient you’re not familiar with!
• Check for Special Events: The market sometimes hosts kids’ activities or chef demonstrations—look for a posted schedule at the entrance.
• Dress for the Weather: While most areas are covered, it’s an outdoor event. Layer up if it’s cool, and don’t forget sunglasses for mid-summer visits.
• Support Small Businesses: The market emphasizes local and small-scale producers. Every purchase supports independent farms and creators based in Skagit County.
• Enjoy the Setting: Grab your breakfast or lunch and find a bench with a river view. Watching boats and birds is all part of the experience.

Whether you’re traveling through the Skagit Valley or seeking a new weekend tradition, the Mount Vernon Farmers Market offers an experience that’s as much about community as it is about delicious food. I always leave inspired—often with more in my basket than I planned, and stories from the people who grow what I bring home.