Quite by accident yesterday we stumbled upon the brand new Central Oregon Locavore marketplace, located on 1st Street just a couple of blocks north of Greenwood; we were driving by on Greenwood when we saw the sandwich board sign, and out of curiosity stopped by on our way back by. I gather COL itself has been around for a little while now, primarily as an online marketplace (you can shop on their website) and the overall concept is “year-round farmers market.” Establishing a retail space will definitely enhance that visibility.

I’m sorry to say I wasn’t aware of COL before yesterday, but I like what I see. Here’s their “about us” blurb:

Central Oregon Locavore is a non-profit organization that improves access to fresh, in-season, nutrient-dense, local food and educates the community about the benefits of sustainably produced food from local farmers and ranchers. COL’s aim is to promote a more ecological and socially just food system that supports greater community wellness, public health, and a thriving local economy.

Their new marketplace space itself is located in an older, industrial-ish building (as they all are on 1st Street, just across from the railroad tracks), and in addition to food and drink they are offering a variety of locally-sourced products more in line with a retail store: I saw herbs, soaps, vitamins and supplements, Hydroflasks, Sara Bella Upcycled products, pet supplies, and so on. And the feel of the market is indeed “year-round farmers market”—the space itself is sparsely filled so far but I was impressed and if you like shopping the farmers markets during the summer this will be a must-stop for you.

Oh, they also have a Kombucha fill station, and possibly plan on installing a beer growler filling station (of course!).

Later this month, on Friday the 15th, they are also holding a Grand Opening/Open House event all day from 1o to 8:

Come and meet your farmers, food producers and ranchers at our all-day Open House Grand Opening Event. Samples, tastings, live music and heartfelt community all guaranteed. If you would like to be a sponsor of Central Oregon Locavore, promote your business and show the community that you truly believe in Local please contact us for a sponsorship packet.

And on Saturday the 16th the Grand Opening continues with a Fundraiser event in the evening from 8pm until 2am:

Join Central Oregon Locavore Non-Profit as we celebrate a monumentous moment in local history and open our local-only marketplace and event center.

Roller Rumble Velo Sprints by Bend Velo and Cascade Couriers will start out the evening at 9pm. Prizes will be awarded. Come early at 8 and sign up!

DJs bPollen & Swett will be rockin the late night dance floor. Come with your dancing shoes!

Central Oregon farmers and chefs will provide the pink pancakes & delectable eats. Beer by Phat Matt of Redmond and Mixed Drinks by Oregon Spirit Distillers (open bar).

Come dressed in your sexy pinks, reds, and whites and spend your Valentines weekend sharing the love, Locavore style.

$25/advanced ticket sales (Locavore fundraiser)
$30 @ the Door
21+/w ID
Bring Your Own Cup (BYOC)
Ride your bicycle to the event

You should go check them out. The new marketplace is located at 1216 NE 1st Street, and their hours are Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 6pm.