Special to the Reporter

The Mercer Island Farmers Market returns for its 17th season from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 1 — rain or shine — to celebrate the best of local farms, food, handmade goods and community.

The season kicks off with a special performance by the Mercer Island High School pep band at 9:45 a.m., setting a festive tone for 2025. This year, market organizers are welcoming 65–75 Washington-based vendors and expecting about 2,800 shoppers each week.

Located next to Mercerdale Park, the market is a community-powered nonprofit dedicated to supporting local growers, producers and small businesses. The market runs every Sunday from June 1 through Sept. 28, with two special bonus events: Farmers-Only Pop-Up Market on Oct. 12, and Harvest Market on Nov. 23.

Returning favorites and new highlights will include a baked potato food truck, fresh salsa, a coffee trailer, knife sharpening and produce picked that morning.

New this year will be a Youth Vendor Program that gives King County students 18 and younger a platform to showcase their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. The Market Bucks program also continues this season, providing extra support for shoppers experiencing food insecurity.

Volunteers are always welcome and can sign up at mifarmersmarket.org. Market Bucks information and more details can be found on the market website.