The Federal Way Farmers Market kicks off its 20th year on Saturday, May 13.
“It’s very meaningful because we’ve been through the pandemic … We survived through that with the vendors,” said Rose Ehl, events director for the market. “This year, we’ve got some new exciting vendors coming in, which is fun. We’re happy and pleased that things are still looking up.”
Opening on Mother’s Day weekend, the market is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. behind The Commons mall along South 324th Street in Federal Way. This year, the market is found behind the former Macy’s entrance, just east of its previous location in 2022, due to construction in the mall’s parking lot.
The opening ceremonies begin at 9:30 a.m. with Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell and local dignitaries, high school bands and vendor recognition. One vendor Ehl and the market volunteers are honoring is a flower vendor who has been with the market for all of its 20 years.
In the past two decades, the Federal Way Farmers Market has been a starting point for a handful of local businesses that began as market vendors and now have their own restaurants, Ehl said.
“We’re happy that we’ve not only been a farmers market with fresh produce, but we’ve helped local businesses grow and prosper,” she said.
Federal Way’s market has fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables, local artisans and crafts, baked goods, plants and more.
New vendors this year include Lake Holm Lavender from Auburn, Pike Place Nuts, NW Bake Shop with coffee and treats, Olive Branch Balsamic Vinegar, a Philly cheese steak vendor and more. Five additional farmers will also be joining the market later this season.
Special Mother’s Day festivities on opening day include fresh flower bouquets, a photo booth, massages and manicures, and treat bags available for moms. For kids, face painting and an activity booth to make Mother’s Day cards will be available.
This month, the market welcomes Ciscoe Morris, a Seattle-based gardening expert, TV and radio personality, and author, at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 20. On May 27, the market will host a Memorial Day observance.
In June, the first Federal Way’s Got Talent competition begins its season. Two finalists from each monthly audition move on and compete against one another at the finals in September for a $500 prize and a chance to perform at the Taste of Federal Way on Sept. 23.
Federal Way’s Got Talent contest is from noon to 1 p.m. at the beginning of each month; contestants are encouraged to bring their own music or contact the market in advance to make arrangements.
The Federal Way Farmers Market is open through October. The market has ample free parking and vendors accept various forms of payment, including cash, card, SNAP, WIC and SFMNP.
For more information on vendors and upcoming events, visit www.federalwayfarmersmarket.com.
Events calendar
June 3: Federal Way’s Got Talent competition
June 20: Shredding event
June 17: Father’s Day celebration
June 24: Community resources and health fair
July 1: Federal Way’s Got Talent and Fourth of July celebration
July 8: We Love Our City Participation
Aug. 5: Federal Way’s Got Talent competition
Aug. 12: Stand Up and Walk for a Cause
Aug. 19: Vendor Appreciation Day
Aug. 26: Lions Club Car Show
Sept. 2: Federal Way’s Got Talent finals
Sept. 23: Taste of Federal Way
Oct. 28: Halloween dress-up party and season close
