If you're a gardener like me, you know it's finally growing season! Since the boon of the warm sun, I've enjoyed watching my sprouts grow. But even if you don't like getting your hands dirty, we can all agree that sunshine means excellent local produce, which means delicious food! See what local farms are growing at the best farmers' market in Washington, located on the peninsula in charming Port Townsend!

With its surfeit of Victorian architecture and artsy undercurrent, Port Townsend is easily one of Washington's most idyllic small towns. Given its outsized cultural presence, it makes sense this community would boast one of our state's best farmers' markets.

Open from April 6 through October 26 and then again from November 2 until December 21, the Port Townsend farmers' market is a celebration of the region's hard-working agricultural workers and their products. Eastern Washington remains the state's farming epicenter, but the peninsula is also brimming with incredible farms worth having on your radar.

If you visit, you'll find between 50 and 80 vendor stands, ranging from artisanal foods (I recommend stopping by Pane d'Amour Artisan Bakery), farm products, and local art. The market also accepts SNAP/EBT cards. Just swipe them at the Information Booth to receive your spending tokens!

It wasn't so long ago that markets were where people accomplished their weekly shopping. In fact, meandering among vendors remains the norm for buying groceries in many parts of the world. It's easy to see the draw. Market shopping helps build connections to your food and community.

This neighborly spirit is strong at the Port Townsend Farmers' Market. You'll likely bump into someone you know if you're a local. If you're new to town or just visiting, you're bound to strike up an interesting conversation with someone you've never met.

In summer, there's usually some live music. If you arrive on a day without entertainment, rest assured, I've never walked away from the market without seeing something delightfully unexpected, even if that thing is a goat strolling on a leash!

Feeling famished from the fun? Save your appetite and grab lunch at the hot food stands. Brick-and-mortar locations have a hefty price tag, meaning some of the state's most exciting up-and-coming restaurants begin as market vendors!

The best farmers' market in Washington just might be Port Townsend's. Its small-town appeal means the crowds are manageable and there's just enough to keep you busy while also feeling you got to visit every vendor.

Growing season is a great time to supplement your weekly groceries with local produce. You'll be stunned by the quality and it's an excellent way to make deeper inroads in your community.