Summer weekends bring locals and tourists out in droves to wander this sprawling outdoor market of crafts both elegant and whimsical, artworks by accomplished and emerging artists, an array of ethnic and American food and entertainment.
Everything here is sold by the people who make them. Browsers easily strike up conversations about the artists’ methods, workmanship, inspirational sources and whatever else a sunny day might infuse into a casual chat.
The Unusual
Some of the offerings are way out-of-the-ordinary. There are the duct tape wallets in multiple colors and styles and the popular sweet potato dog chews. There’s plenty of tie-die, including adorable shirts, socks and dresses for babies and toddlers. There’s also a supply of whimsical hats, as well as fashion hats, sun hats and fleece hats that hug the head and neck for warmth in the coldest weather.
Tarot card readers are almost always on hand to tell your fortune, and henna artists will decorate your hands, arms or face in intricate patterns drawn from traditional designs or your own idea.
Fine Craftsmanship
Many accomplished artists have been selling their products at the market nearly since its founding in 1974. Among them are jewelry crafters who make gorgeous rings, earrings and pendants worked in gold and silver. Many take special orders for custom work.
Seamstresses sew up clothing from sundresses to warm winter jackets, and textile artists display hand-painted silk scarves. Photographers sell framed pictures of local and exotic scenery, while painters offer art for hanging and greeting cards for sending friends.
Potters come with decorative ceramics. Woodworkers display folk art, inlaid boxes and game boards.
Glass arts abound. There are blown glass wedding vases, stained and fused glass creations, glass jewelry, hummingbird feeders, and Christmas ornaments.
You’ll find plenty for baby, including felted-wool slippers, diaper bags and totes, dolls and toys. Music lovers will find flutes and clay whistles.
Gifts for All
Visitors will find plenty to take back for family and friends. There are handmade soaps, body lotions and aromatic oils, some made with locally-grown lavender and other organic herbs. Look for hand-bound journals, candles, wind chimes and garden sculptures. The market caters to Christmas shoppers with the December “Festival of the Last Minute.”
Food Court
The market is a place to spend the day, so plan to have lunch at one of the many booths in the Food Court. Among the ethnic offerings you’ll find Middle Eastern food from the Beirut Café, Himalayan vegetarian dishes from Kathmandu Café, pasties and other British “pub grub” from Limey’s, plus Greek gyros, Creole barbequed ribs, and Mexican and Asian choices.
Music and Entertainment
A stage near the food court hosts a varied schedule of music. Individual musicians and entertainers also stake out spots elsewhere in the market with music, juggling acts and more. Tables and seating surround the main stage, and another popular spot to sit with a plate from the food court is along the edges of Skidmore Fountain. The fountain, dating to the city’s founding days, is a landmark for the market.
Getting There
The Saturday Market is in Portland’s Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood, under the Burnside Bridge on SW Naito Parkway. There is a city-operated parking garage at Northwest 1st and Davis, two blocks north of West Burnside Street and one block west of Naito Parkway. The MAX lightrail red and blue lines stop in the center of the market.
Hours:
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
When looking for things to do in Portland, the Saturday Market should be at the top of any weekend list. While many artisans have been at the market for years, there are always new ones with something new to show.
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