Bellingham farmers market closes, hot sauce company expands, downtown restaurant renovates
Here’s a roundup of the latest retail and restaurant activity in and around Whatcom County:
Farmers market returns for summer
The Rome Grange Farmers Market is returning for the summer, with Friday markets starting June 2. The market, which will have local produce, crafts and treats for the whole family, is put on by the Rome Grange, a non-profit social organization. The market will be open from 3-7 p.m. on Fridays from June 2 through Sept. 22. at 2821 Mt. Baker Hwy. in Bellingham.
Mount Bakery undergoing renovations
The Mount Bakery Cafe’s downtown Bellingham location is undergoing renovations and adjusting its business hours. The cafe, at 308 W. Champion St., is now open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday through Sunday until further notice. The Mount Bakery Cafe in Fairhaven has not changed hours and will continue to operate from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily at 1217 Harris Ave.
Bellingham hot sauce company expands
Funky’s Hot Sauce Factory of Bellingham announced its expansion in a Facebook post on May 18, expanding its company to also make BBQ sauce.
The company bought out Trilby’s Kitchen, a BBQ sauce, rub and dip mix business.
Funky’s Hot Sauce can be purchased online or at various stores across Whatcom County, Washington state, Oregon, California, New York, Massachusetts and parts of Canada.
Midweek farmers market on pause
The Bellingham Farmers Market announced on May 18 that it will no longer host midweek markets on Wednesdays during 2023.
“Although we have had much enthusiasm for the Wednesday market over its 20-plus-year history, this has not translated to the purchases we need to build the vibrant, bustling and sustainable market we want to see,” the announcement stated.
“If you want to see a future mid-week market succeed, keep shopping at the Saturday farmers market!”
The Bellingham Farmers Market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday through the third week of December at 1100 Railroad Ave.
