Farmers’ market freshness
It’s an escape: a simple respite from shopping carts, long lines, mass production and processed foods.
Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. visitors can delight their senses at the Farmers’ Market at Liberty Lake.
More than 20 local farmers and artisans display their goods. The scent of plants, freshly cut herbs and flowers hangs in the air. The colors of the vegetables seem brighter, and you know the eggs are straight from the farm. Honey, preserves, lavender products, Italian foods, fresh breads and herbal remedies are made with local ingredients. Hand-painted windows and cabinet doors are reasonably priced as are the hand-painted rocks, metal sculptures and concrete statues. There also is handmade jewelry, hand-painted silk and “quilts ‘n things.”
Shopping is accompanied by live music. It might be a saxophone player, a guitar player or a singer.
On average, it’s been a tough go for such places in the Spokane area. They come and go, are hard to find, and are all but forgotten by those other than the diehard marketgoers. The Liberty Lake Farmers’ Market is an exception. Rain or shine, the community supports and embraces the concept, holding fast to its cultural past. Area farmers set up shop long before the super stores arrived, and memories of swapping gardening tips with a local grower keep people hungry for a nostalgic stroll through an outdoor market.
Julie McAndrew arrived in Spokane Valley two years ago from Topsham, Maine. She has had a hard time finding a farmers’ market.
“We had a market every Wednesday and Saturday in the downtown square,” she said. She only recently heard of the Liberty Lake market and is looking forward to regularly attending it.
Seattle’s Pike Place Market began in 1907 with a few farmers’ carts loaded with produce. Shortly after, real estate developer Frank Goodwin saw “gold in them thar groceries” and was instrumental in the design of the famous market place.
Liberty Lake has embraced its market for the last five years, and it’s a staple in the community. “The market contributes to the civic and social life of Liberty Lake,” said Jim Frank of Greenstone Corp. “It’s important to develop neighborhoods with lasting value.”
Frank helps to do just that by allowing the market to set up shop on Greenstone’s property at 1421 N. Meadowwood Lane. The city itself is a partner, with annual donations.
Even the mayor, Steve Peterson, and his wife, Charmaine, are involved in the market. They run the Crepe Cafe. While Charmaine Peterson pours batter onto the large round portable crepe cooker, Steve Peterson handles the money and chews the fat. This is their third year doing it. They’re not in it for the money but as a way to connect with their community as well as visitors.
Visitors also can get tacos, smoothies and other beverages. Even children are involved, selling Italian sodas and handmade items.
Holli Parker has been managing the market for the past three years.
“I really enjoy it,” she said, “There are good people here. You can get fresh produce that tastes like it.”