The produce stands are always popular at Sunday Market (yum!), as are the artists and craftspeople who come in from miles around with their wares.

Mother’s Day begins another season for Astoria Sunday Market, which opens May 11. Market hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday through Oct. 5, providing ample time to explore historic downtown Astoria while shopping at the popular outdoor market.

Astoria Sunday Market features 200 booths offering new vendors in addition to returning favorites. All items are grown, gathered or created by the farmers, artists and craftspeople exhibiting. “We are especially pleased with the distinctive workmanship and high caliber of products available,” noted Cyndi Mudge, the new director for Astoria Sunday Market. Mudge replaces the longtime executive director, Joyce Compere, who recently announced her retirement. “New and returning visitors will find something that keeps them coming back each week,” Mudge added.

In addition to a distinctive range of art, products and farm goods, the market includes a food court with live entertainment from regional bands including The Brownsmead Flats, Floating Glass Balls, Salty Dogs and Columbia Crew, among others.

Now in its ninth year, Astoria Sunday Market was heralded as Oregon’s largest market of its kind in 2007 and its reputation for excellence earned it the 2004 Downtown Achievement Award from the Oregon Downtown Development Association. The board’s mission is to revitalize downtown Astoria, and funds raised from the Sunday Market have made a number of significant improvements, including the recent repaving of portions of 12th Street, the construction of downtown public restrooms and installation of dedicated electrical service that serves both the Market and the Christmas Club for holiday decorations. In addition, Astoria Sunday Market has provided grants to The Trolley and Liberty Theater, among other important organizations contributing to the health and vitality of the community.

For more information about Astoria Sunday Market, visit www.astoriasundaymarket.net or call (503) 325-1010.