The Sounds of the Saturday Market

Sounds of the Saturday Market

On a crisp fall day, a diverse crowd of all ages and backgrounds flocks to downtown Eugene for the Saturday market.  The shoppers wander aimlessly between the booths, pausing to admire a piece of jewelry or handmade pottery, as fall leaves crunch beneath their feet.

“We’re local, handcrafted, sustainable.  We’re a community of food, arts, crafts, and services.   It’s fun, it’s handmade, and it’s good for your heart and good for your community.”  That was Susannah Liberty who has been coming to the market for several years to sell her gourmet art.

The Saturday Market was established in 1970 to support local artisans and the community.  From April to November around 100 vendors sell their handmade crafts and local produce.  The colorful booths cover several blocks in downtown Eugene and emanate a fun, lively atmosphere.

The vendors are friendly and chatter excitedly with customers about their craft, the nice weather, or the upcoming Holiday Market.

Friends, family, and complete strangers sit companionably at picnic tables to enjoy the delicious food and listen to the beautiful music.

Each booth is uniquely designed and every vendor has a story.  Whether first time market goers, or regulars everyone enjoys the experience and leaves with smiles on their faces.

“I mean artwork, jewelry, everything.  Everyone seems really friendly so far, that we’ve talked to.”  That was Jill Hayward a newcomer to the market who says she will definitely come again.

This is Sarah Hagy, reporting from the Saturday Market, downtown Eugene.