History

Conceived and developed in 1988 by Richard "Mike" Rankin, the Hilo Farmers Market had a humble beginning with only four farmers who sold their goods from their parked cars and trucks.

Today, the market has grown to over 150+ on Big market days, (Wednesday and Saturdays). Vendors sell everything from fresh island fruits and vegetables to locally grown tropical flowers, special Big Island food products, handmade craft items and beautiful gifts made with Aloha.

If you are looking for the best deals on produce or a special gift that says "The Big Island", you'll find it at The Hilo Farmers Market.

We have a high tech side too -- the Hilo Farmers Market was the first open market in the nation to be federally approved to accept food stamps by way of a unique electronic system and EBT cards.

The Hilo Farmers Market is considered to be one of the best open markets on the Big Island and in the State of Hawaii. We've gotten our share of awards:

"Best Open Market on the Big Island 1999 and 2000" Hawaii Tribune Herald Reader's Choice Awards.

"One of the Best Farmers' Markets in the West" Sunset Magazine, September 2000 (The only one listed from Hawaii!)

"Best Farmers Market" Hawaii Magazine, August 2000.

"Best Place to Buy Fresh Fruits and Vegetables" and "Best Place to Buy Flowers on the Big Island" Hawaii Island Journal, April 2001

We were also featured on the Epicurious Food Show on the Discovery Channel (Dec. 2000). and in United Airlines Hemispheres magazine in September 2000.

Since April 1999, The Hilo Farmers Market has been owned and operated by Hilo Farmers Market L.L.C., a Hawaii based company. Keith De La Cruz is Market Master and together with a team of five, operates the market every week, all year round.