The Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market opens its 15th season this Saturday, May 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Millennium Plaza Park at First and Evergreen. I’ve sung its praises before so this time around I decided to let TripAdvisor reviewers explain why the Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market is ranked the #1 Thing to Do in Lake Oswego.

“Best Farmers’ Market in the state” by Honest Sue. She mentions the variety of offerings and rotating vendors selling everything from jewelry to clothing.

“Come for brunch—stay for the music and farmers’ and artisan products.” – Monk Travellers. This woman’s family hits the market every Saturday with a first stop in the back corner for brunch, including a Mexican dish her husband looks forward to all week.

“Can’t beat the ambiance of the Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market” – sdorn2013. This fan describes the ambiance as “happiness plus the expectation of touching, looking and buying.”

“The best farmers’ market—bar none” – Karen H. She backs up her claim by pointing out the quality meats, fruits, vegetables and flowers, live music, perfect ambiance and nearby restaurants with outdoor seating overlooking the lake.

“Little bit of everything” – tipsfortrip. That includes lake views and a size that is big enough to offer a good variety but small enough to be manageable.

“Perfect Saturday Morning” – booked2go. This TripAdvisor likes the size, the prepared food vendors, entertainment and local shopping nearby.

“Small town with a big market” – Monk Travellers. This reviewer goes on to call the Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market her “hands down favorite U.S. market.” Has something to do with the views of both the lake and Mt. Hood, variety of prepared foods-including gluten free—and breakfast possibilities.

This summer there is more to love. New vendors include Field & Forage (mushrooms and micro greens), Napoli, that’s Amore! (Italian cuisine), Donut Days, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Kimo’s Dips (dried spices), Old Oregon Brand (free range chickens), and Ole World Oils (camelina oil).

The market is also introducing a new program for youngsters called Farm Fresh Kids. Youth ages 4-12 years are invited to visit the Market Information booth (near the Fortuna Fountain) and answer the healthy kids’ question of the day. Participants will then receive $2 in Market tokens to purchase fresh fruits or vegetables from Market vendors. What a great way to turn your kids into nutritious food shoppers!

One thing will be missing this year—the volunteer run doggie day care program. Because of increased popularity, limited staffing and the City’s liability, the program had to be discontinued, so please leave your pets at home.

Follow “52 Reasons to Love Lake Oswego” by clicking on the “Sign me up” button in the top right hand column.