here’s still plenty of life at the Lane County Farmers Market as we head into fall. From weekly markets filled with local farmers and producers to new community events, the season is far from over.
One of the biggest upcoming events is the 2026 Hot Pepper Eating Contest on September 29, when 15 contestants will face 10 rounds of increasingly hot, locally grown peppers. The free contest takes place from noon to 1 p.m. at the Farmers Market Pavilion & Plaza, alongside the Tuesday Farmers Market. Think you can take the heat? Entries are open through September 18.
The market is also asking shoppers to cast a vote. Lane County Farmers Market was named No. 1 in Oregon last year in the America’s Farmers Market Celebration, and voting is now open to help the market compete for a spot among the top farmers markets nationwide. Voting runs through September 30.
Locally, the market is also up for recognition in the 2026–27 Best of Eugene nominations, where it hopes to defend its title for Best Farmers Market and compete for Best Local Market.
And there’s still time to make the market part of your weekly routine. Saturday markets continue through December 19, Tuesday markets through October 27, and the Springfield Sunday Farmers Market through October 25.
Stop by, shop local, catch an upcoming event and, if you love the market, give it a vote.
