At the Bend Farmers Market, shoppers access a $20 weekly match for fresh fruits and vegetables via Double Up Food Bucks, plus a $10 Protein Perks match. This, according to Central Oregon Daily, directly boosts purchasing power, making healthy eating more accessible.
However, this season reveals a widening chasm in community access to fresh, affordable produce. Many communities are seeing new or returning outdoor markets with enhanced food assistance, but some established markets are not reopening, creating a patchwork of access.
Therefore, communities must actively seek out and support their local markets to ensure continued access to fresh food and local commerce, as their presence cannot be taken for granted.
Your Guide to This Season's Market Openings
1. Lubbock Downtown Farmers Market
Opening May 23 for the 2026 season, the Lubbock Downtown Farmers Market runs Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. until October 24. Over 40 vendors offer diverse goods. Crucially, it accepts SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks Texas, and WIC Voucher Programs, making it a vital resource for food access, as reported by the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal.
2. Bend Farmers Market
The Bend Farmers Market opens downtown Wednesday, May 6, operating 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through October 14. It provides a $20 weekly Double Up Food Bucks match for produce and a $10 Protein Perks match. This consistent midweek access, coupled with significant financial incentives, positions it as a key driver of community health, according to Central Oregon Daily.
3. Southwest Cape Coral Farmers Market
Opening this year, the Southwest Cape Coral Farmers Market runs Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the German American Social Club. With approximately 45 weekly vendors, it offers a robust midweek shopping option, vital for local commerce, as reported by WINK News.
4. Elevation Farmers Market
The new Elevation Farmers Market opens May 1, operating Fridays from 3-7 p.m. This addition expands fresh food options and evening access for residents, according to Central Oregon Daily.
5. Brighton Farmers Market
The Brighton Farmers Market is open, now at its temporary summer location: 150 Sawgrass Drive. This relocation ensures continued access despite logistical shifts, according to the Democrat and Chronicle.
6. Brockport Farmers Market
The Brockport Farmers Market runs June 14 to Oct. 11 on Main Street, between State and King streets, featuring roughly 25 vendors. Its consistent presence supports local producers through the peak growing season, as reported by the Democrat and Chronicle.
7. North Chili Farmers Market
The North Chili Farmers Market operates June 13 to Oct. 24 at North Chili United Methodist Church. Its extended season into fall provides sustained access to seasonal produce, according to the Democrat and Chronicle.
8. Canandaigua Farmers Market
The Canandaigua Farmers Market, featuring approximately 30 vendors, is held on South Main Street between Lafayette Avenue and Mill Street. Its central location and consistent vendor base solidify its role as a community staple, according to the Democrat and Chronicle.
