A New Farm-Focused Chapter

One of South Lake Union’s most popular weekend traditions is entering a new era.

After more than a decade as the SLU Market, the neighborhood staple will officially relaunch as the South Lake Union Farmers Market on Saturday beginning June 6. The expanded market is a collaboration between Northwest Marketplaces and the Seattle Farmers Market Association and will bring a renewed focus on Washington-grown food, local farmers, and community connection.

Located beside The Spheres at 2100 6th Avenue, the market will span two full city blocks and feature more than 100 booths each week, including 20–30 farmers from across Washington. Shoppers can expect fresh produce, seafood, meat, dairy products, prepared foods, flowers, artisan goods, and more. Check out the full vendor list here.

Organizers describe the market as a “weekly pop-up grocery store” for the neighborhood, with a strong emphasis on 100% Washington-grown products.

The market season is also growing significantly. Previously operating from May through September, the new farmers market will now run every Saturday from June through Thanksgiving, with long-term plans to potentially transition into a year-round market as early as next season.

The expanded footprint reflects both the continued growth of South Lake Union and increasing demand for consistent access to fresh, locally produced food. Organizers also hope the market becomes a gathering space connecting nearby neighborhoods including Belltown, Downtown, Cascade, Uptown, and Capitol Hill.

To make visits easier, free parking will once again be available in nearby Amazon buildings.

Another addition launching alongside the market is the Day One Community Farm Fund, a new initiative designed to support farmers during the first year of the expanded market. Corporate and philanthropic contributions will help purchase surplus food directly from participating vendors each week, with nonprofit partner FARMore distributing the goods within the community.

According to Joy Moody, Executive Director of FARMore, the organization is actively connecting with several food access and community-serving organizations in South Lake Union and will be finalizing participating partners in the coming weeks.

Beyond the fresh food and flowers, organizers say farmers markets play an important role in supporting local economies and small businesses. Many Washington brands, including Rachel’s Ginger Beer and Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt, got their start at local markets.

The new South Lake Union Farmers Market will make its debut this Saturday, June 6 and will be open from 10am–3pm.