PORTLAND – After more than a year of COVID-19 closures and restrictions, the Portland Saturday Market is asking for help.
The arts and crafts market has been a downtown Portland institution since 1974, but the past year has taken a financial toll on the market and its vendors. After closing from March through June, the market reopened on Saturdays only July through September. Citing wildfire smoke and continuing restrictions, the market closed again in the fall, missing out on key revenue over the holidays.
Last week, the market launched a GoFundMe campaign seeking public support, with a $150,000 goal to help secure the market’s future. As of Wednesday morning, more than $17,000 had been donated.
Funds from the campaign will cover the market’s fixed monthly expenses including rent, insurance, utilities, and internet, according to the market. Contributions are not tax deductible.
The Portland Saturday Market plans to reopen April 17. Hours will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays only.
