Farmers market gets ready for seventh season

At10 a.m. Sunday, June 7, the Auburn International Farmer's Market begins its seventh year, in the Auburn Sound Transit Plaza at 23 A St. SW.

By Robert Whale • May 27, 2015 4:43 pm

It boasts more than 40 vendors, from restaurant-based concession stands steeped in home-cooked flavor to stands offering a variety of fresh, locally grown, farm-based foods and hand-made items.

What is it? Why, the Auburn International Farmers Market, of course.

And at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 7, the market pitches freshly, nay, fragrantly into its seventh year, in the Auburn Sound Transit Plaza at 23 A St. SW.

In coordination with the City of Auburn, this year’s market fairly bursts with good stuff, like free performances, chef demonstrations with farm-fresh ingredients, kids activities, and classes on health, nutrition and gardening.

“The opening 7th market season is just around the corner. A new market manager, Niki House, will be taking over the reigns from Joanne Macnab, who is retiring after five record breaking seasons. Joanne has been in a transition mode with Niki – showing her the ‘in’s and out’s’ of the AIFM operation. I’m sure you’ll see Joanne at the market from time to time. Ciscoe Morris will be back this year, along with other market surprises to tantilize customers wanting to enjoy the market events and all the fresh market foods,” said City Councilman Bill Peloza.

Want to get involved? Well, there are always plenty of volunteer opportunities. To volunteer, just fill out the online registration form at www.auburnwa.gov, or call the market at 253-266-2726.

The market operates from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 7 to Sept. 27.

2015 Special events at the market:

• June 7: Opening Day, ceremony at 9:30 a.m., Kiwanis breakfast & lunch

• June 14: Hal Meng Canning Demonstration, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

• June 21: Ciscoe Morris, 12-1:30 p.m.

• July 5: Senior Appreciation Day, YMCA Blood pressure checks

• July 12: Dog Days of Summer, Dog Parade 12-1 p.m.

• July 19: Simply Magic, 11 a.m.-noon

• July 26: Kids Day

• Aug. 2: Nat’l Farmers Market Week, free giveaway

• Aug. 9: International Day, Big Time Rhythm 10:30-11:30 a.m.

• Aug. 23: Chili Cook-Off