Hoodland Farmers Market Finds New Home at Mount Hood RV Village

By Marie Kennedy, The Mountain Times

The Hoodland Farmers Market is entering a new chapter this spring, relocating to a larger space at Mount Hood Village RV Resort as organizers look to build on the market’s steady growth and deepen its role in the community.

Opening day is set for May 9, kicking off the 2026 season that will run through Oct. 17. The market’s new home, located along U.S. Highway 26, offers significantly more space than its previous location, allowing for expanded vendor participation and improved traffic flow.

Secretary Meg Hoopes said the move comes after several seasons of continued growth.

“We’re so grateful for the community support,” Hoopes said. “We’ve continued to create a strong network of vendors to the point where we’ve outgrown the church parking lot.”

As the market expanded, vendors began spilling into adjacent areas, creating logistical challenges. A trial run at the new site during a Fourth of July event confirmed it was time for a change.

“It was a huge success,” she said. “Our vendors did great; the community was excited and there was plenty of space for kids to play safely.”

The move is not without some nostalgia. Hoopes described leaving the former location as “bittersweet,” noting the strong relationship with the church and its central visibility. Still, she sees the new site as an opportunity to reestablish a gathering place with deep community roots.

Since 2018, Hoodland Farmers Market has focused on expanding both the size and impact of the market. A key priority moving forward is continuing to address food access in the Hoodland area.

“With only one grocery store, our community members often commute to get their weekly groceries. Strengthening our rural food network and supporting small family farms is important to us.” 

That effort includes recruiting more farmers and food producers, particularly those offering meat and other staple goods, while continuing to support local artisans.

“We have so many talented artists in this community,” Hoopes said. “Our mission is to help them create revenue streams so they can support their families and do what they love.” 

Beyond commerce, the market is designed as a community hub, especially during the summer months.

“Hoodland Farmers Market creates a safe gathering space for all people,” she said. “We love seeing families gather, our local youth have something to do out of the norm, and it adds a fun weekend addition to our mountain community.” 

The new location does bring increased costs, and organizers are now seeking additional support from the community to sustain and grow the market.

“Our overhead has increased significantly with the move,” Hoopes said. “This year more than ever we are seeking business partners, sponsors, volunteers, and donations to continue our success.” 

The market also continues to prioritize accessibility. It accepts SNAP benefits and participates in the Double Up Food Bucks program, allowing shoppers to stretch their food dollars by matching up to $20 in benefits.

Live music will remain a staple of the market as well, adding to what Hoopes describes as the overall atmosphere.

“We’re so happy that we are able to pay our musicians and provide music at the market,” she said. “It adds to the overall experience.”

With more space, a growing vendor base and a renewed focus on community connection, the Hoodland Farmers Market is poised to expand its role as both a food resource and a gathering place for our mountain communities.