On the long list of reasons why we’re loving downtown Medford, the Saturday Rogue Valley Growers and Crafters Market is near the top. From May-October you’ll find tents full of produce, sweets, prepared food and crafts all along the park block at the Medford Commons (just steps away from Common Block). From 9am-1pm you can get your locally produced groceries and goods for the week. Next market season, you’ll be able to stop at Common Block, too, for a pint and snacks before heading home.

Every week we’ve seen the market grow this year, with new vendors joining all the time. One of our favorite booths, Auntie Mama Cookies, joined just a few weeks ago and totally satisfies our savory/sweets craving with Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies. That’s right, you read correctly. Bacon Chocolate Chip. We’re also fond of fresh tamales and strawberry lemonade at Katrina’s Tamales, and full lunch plates at Peruvian Point. Who wants to make lunch at home on the weekends, anyway? You can find a full list of all the market vendors on Rogue Valley Growers and Crafters Market website.

Saturday Market at The Commons Medford

We also love that the Market Sprouts Kids Club can only be found at the Saturday Medford Market (kids’ incentives + nearby playground = easy to convince our kids to get going on the weekend). While you’re browsing for groceries, the kiddos can get their passport stamped, participate in free activities, and spend $2 in free tokens. And the program is sponsored by our next-door neighbors at Lithia Motors – you all rock.

While we’re busy working inside on our brewery space, it’s been a weekly pleasure to run outside across the street and take a break at the Saturday market. Bring the family (or just you, if you prefer keeping those cookies to yourself) for a morning in fresh air, fresh food, and – next year, once we’re up and running – fresh beer. We’re thinking a pale ale might pair nicely with those tamales.