Each year the Pacific NW CSA Coalition puts together a big gathering of CSAs in the area called CSA Share Fairs. These events have been an opportunity for folks to come by and check out the world of CSAs, and this year is no different. For years—really, since the late mid-1990s—I’ve been a fan of and subscriber to CSAs (and their cousin, the CSF—Community Supported Fishery—like Iliamna Fish Co). They are a fantastic way to access local produce and other products, so I’m thrilled to tell you about these events.
One of the Best Parts of Being Part of a CSA
One thing I have really enjoyed over the years (and I started my CSA journey back in the 1990s) is getting to know the range of local produce from whatever area I lived in—whether it was in Berkeley, CA or Astoria, NY. Having unfamiliar items basically handed to me made it easy to expand my food world. Case in point: fresh cranberry beans in the shell are just incredible!
And when I was given familiar vegetables and fruits, I was impressed by their quality and freshness. “Joining a CSA is like having a subscription to the freshest 100% local produce—and members enjoy a wider variety of foods than you’d get at the grocery store, contributing to a healthier, and much tastier, diet,” said Holly Hutchason, Executive Director of PNWCSA.
The 2025 CSA Share Fairs
This year, the there will be two PNWCSA Share Fairs. The first one will be in Hillsboro on Saturday, February 22 from 10am to 2pm. The second one will be in Portland on Sunday, March 2 from 10am to 1pm.
West Side Share Fair
Taking place at the Helvetia Farm Market, you’ll have a chance to meet local farmers, get to know their farm, and what they offer in a CSA.
Along with time with the farmers there will be a couple of workshops. At 1pm there’s a free seed swap, and at 2pm there will be the Garden Dreams Workshop. There, you can learn the basics of starting a vegetable or flower garden. Find out more information here. Cost is $59 to participate.
The Comida KIN Food Truck will also be on site. They offer food made with produce and protein from Willamette Valley farmers and ranchers (many from Washington County).
Portland’s Share Fair
The Portland Share Fair will be back at the Redd on Salmon space in SE Portland. At the fair you can:
- Learn: Get to know Community Supported Agriculture, personally.
- Discover: Meet over 45 local farmers offering a CSA.
- Connect: Find the perfect CSA for you at their matchmaking booth.
- Enjoy: There will be family-friendly activities and fun for all ages.
- Eat and Learn: Local chefs will do live demos, offer cooking tips, and samples.
On that last point, the chefs doing the live demos include Anna Lee of Rice Thief (Korean comfort food), Andre Uribe of Food Strong Family (food coaching for families), and Cameron Dunlop of Morchella (foraged and locally-sourced food—you may remember that Fat Milo’s is opening up in their old space on NE Fremont).
Additionally, head over to the Eventbrite page for the Portland Share Fair, register (it’s free), and you’ll then have the chance to win prizes. Prize drawing will be at noon at the Fair, and you must be present to win.
The PNWCSA folks like to emphasize that a CSA isn’t just getting local produce and products, it’s also about community. “Becoming a CSA member is an excellent way to support your farmers and the local economy and attending CSA Share Fair is the best way to get started,” Holly remarked. I definitely agree.
From supporting local farmers, to eating well, to getting to know your neighbors, CSAs help you connect with the people who, like you, want to support a thriving, local food system. This encourages good health, care for the environment, and centering sustainability.
After I published this article, I heard at a Slow Food event that there are going to be baby animals at the Portland share fair! And the Comida KIN Food Truck will also be at the Portland fair! Thanks to a reader for updating me on this.
Also note: You can use your SNAP benefits to buy a CSA share and get a 50% discount on produce.
I hope you can make either of these events!
West Side Share Fair
Saturday, February 22, 2025
10am to 2pm
Helvetia Farm Market
23137 NW West Union Rd, Hillsboro
Portland Share Fair
Sunday, March 2, 2025
10am to 1pm
Redd on Salmon
831 SE Salmon Street, Portland
PNWCSA website | Instagram | Facebook
Updated February 20, 2025.
Meg Cotner
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Comida KIN food truck will also be at the Portland share fair!
Thank you so much for pointing this out – I missed it the first time around. But I’ve added in this detail to the article – thanks again, Mary!