Sip and savor your way through January with a complimentary hot beverage from the Olympia Farmers Market, which continues to be open on Saturdays through March. You can chase away any winter blahs with a stroll along the various vendors that brave the cool weather all season long. Paella Pro owner Tony Judah recalls making paella in the snow! Quell your stomach rumblings with either a mixed or vegan paella where market products like Rising River Farm’s squash or Sound Fresh’s clams make shining additions. Tony likes to give market visitors the chance to taste locally sourced ingredients. All recipes are cooked from scratch, and he can tell you every detail.
January offers limited but wonderful produce, plenty of pasture raised poultry and pork, plus artisan cheeses for eating at home. A gingerbread lady from the San Francisco Street Bakery will round out your meal (but the cookie might not make it home.) If you are thinking of doing baking at home, stop by Baker Potter, a business owned by Ryan Lee. He stone-grinds Washington sourced grains in his shop on Harstine Island and sells various kinds. Take home a loaf that he’s already baked with appetizing names such as heirloom apple or raisin coriander.
Remember there are also amazing handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and accessories to examine and appreciate.
There are free standing heaters throughout the aisles to help keep you warm, and picnic tables are available under the barn canopy. Just like in warmer weather, musicians will entertain you while you sip, savor and shop.
Be sure to enter the no-purchase-necessary daily raffle. Go to the outreach table for your chance to take home special market merchandise. And even if your name isn’t drawn you are still a winner! You will get in more of your daily steps and chat with informative vendors for recipes, home decorating ideas or gift suggestions. Your purchases support local farmers and businesses right in your own community, and that is a wonderful thing.
Parking is always free. For more details about vendors or events, visit the Olympia Farmers Market website or call the office at 360-352-9096.
Olympia Farmers Market
700 Capitol Way N, Olympia
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