Olympia Farmers Market

Market Overview

The Olympia Farmers Market is one of only a handful of vendor-owned and operated farmers markets in Washington State, which means the farmers and artisans who sell there actually run the place. That distinction matters. It shapes the market’s character. Since 1975, this cooperative has operated as a gathering space where small local growers, makers, and producers from Thurston, Mason, Lewis, and Grays Harbor Counties can sell directly to their community at reasonable prices.

Over 100 vendors work the market in a partially covered space in downtown Olympia, creating something that feels more like a neighborhood institution than a tourist attraction. You’ll encounter farmers you recognize, artisans who’ve been showing up for years, and the kind of organized chaos that comes with real community commerce.

The market pulses differently through the seasons. From April through October, it’s open Thursday through Sunday with the full vendor roster. During the slower months, you can still shop, though with a smaller crew and adjusted hours. The point is simple: Olympia has a year-round farmers market run by the people who actually grow and make the food.

What You’ll Find

Seasonal Vegetables & Fruit

Multiple farms from Thurston and Mason Counties. Microgreens year-round. Berries, stone fruit, and field vegetables in season. Plant starts and seeds in spring.

Pasture-Raised & Local Catch

Pasture-raised beef, pork, and poultry. Farm-fresh eggs and artisan cheeses. Local oysters and other Pacific Coast seafood. Yogurts and dairy direct from local farms.

Blue Heron Bakery Co-op

The bakery operates as a market vendor in its own right. Fresh bread, pastries, and baked goods. Jams, preserves, honey, and local wine from regional producers.

What’s in Season

Asparagus & Cherries

First asparagus of the year, Walla Walla onions, sweet cherries, and the return of the full Thursday through Sunday schedule in April.

Berries & Stone Fruit

Blueberries, peaches, apricots, melons, and peppers. The short berry season is worth planning around. Peak vendor count and the most live music.

Apples & Root Vegetables

Pumpkins, apples, squash, and potatoes take over the stands. Good time for the holiday market as it transitions into the November schedule.

Storage Crops & Staples

Saturday-only schedule from January through March. Smaller vendor roster but still the real thing: kale, potatoes, eggs, bread, and local dairy.

Good to Know

This is a covered market, which means you can shop comfortably in rain or shine, a genuine asset in the Pacific Northwest. It’s a destination, not just a shopping stop. Arrive early for the best selection on vegetables and baked goods. Many vendors sell out of popular items by noon.

The market sits at the north end of Capitol Way, an easy walk from the Capitol Campus. Multiple transit lines serve the area, and the covered food court means you can have breakfast or lunch while you listen to live music.

Planning Your Visit

Getting Here

The market is at the north end of Capitol Way in downtown Olympia, a short walk from the Capitol Campus and surrounding attractions. Free two-hour parking sits on site, with overflow available on Washington Street.

Multiple transit lines serve the area. If you’re coming from Seattle, plan about 60 minutes on I-5 South to Exit 105.

What to Bring

Reusable bags, cash for smaller vendors, your EBT card if applicable. Dress in layers. The covered sections can be warm while open areas stay cooler.

Seasonal Hours

April through October: Thursday through Sunday, 10am to 3pm. Full vendor roster, live music daily.

November through December: Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 3pm. Holiday market with reduced but still solid vendor count.

January through March: Saturday only, 10am to 3pm. Smaller selection, more intimate atmosphere.

SNAP / EBT & Benefit Programs

Swipe your EBT card at the market office for EBT Market Vouchers. The Fresh Bucks program matches up to $25 spent on fresh fruits and vegetables. WIC cash value benefits accepted year-round. Senior FMNP cards valid June through October.