A Local Impact, Recognized Statewide: Alex Heiser and the Downtown Walla Walla Farmers Market
If you’ve spent a Saturday morning at the Downtown Walla Walla Farmers Market, you’ve experienced the result of years of care, intention, and deep commitment to community.
We’re proud to share that Alex Heiser, who manages the Downtown Walla Walla Farmers Market, has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Washington State Farmers Market Association, a statewide organization dedicated to supporting and strengthening farmers markets across Washington, while continuing his work here in Walla Walla.
Supporting Markets Across Washington
The Washington State Farmers Market Association is a nonprofit organization that supports more than 110 farmers markets across the state, providing training, resources, and advocacy to help markets and vendors thrive.
Alex will bring the perspective and experience of the Downtown Walla Walla Farmers Market into statewide conversations shaping the future of farmers markets across Washington.
Rooted in Community
Established in 1997, the Downtown Walla Walla Farmers Market has long been part of the community.
Since joining the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation in 2019, Alex has helped shape what the market is today, overseeing its growth into a consistent and widely recognized part of downtown.
Under Alex’s leadership, the market has grown in both size and impact, becoming a steady and recognizable rhythm in downtown.
“Alex brings a level of care, consistency and thoughtfulness that sets him apart,” said Mallory Nash, Executive Director of the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation. “He knows this work, he puts in the time and he shows up for people. Our vendors trust him, and that’s a big part of why the market continues to grow.”
That impact shows up in a few ways:
Vendors have seen record-breaking sales, reaching nearly $1 million in 2025.
The market continues to prioritize locally grown and produced goods, with more than 50% of offerings coming directly from agricultural producers.
The Farmers Market serves as a starting point for many local businesses, with several growing into full-time storefronts.
More Than a Market
At its core, the Farmers Market is about people.
It’s early mornings setting up tents, conversations between neighbors, and the shared experience of supporting local. It’s a place where relationships are built, where new businesses take shape, and where community shows up week after week.
Alex has helped create and maintain that balance. The growth is clear, but so is the experience. It’s a market that continues to feel local, welcoming, and worth coming back to.
Looking Ahead
As Alex begins his service with Washington State Farmers Market Association, he will continue leading the Downtown Walla Walla Farmers Market while contributing his experience to support farmers markets across the state.
This recognition reflects years of steady work and a deep commitment to the people behind it.
We’re grateful to have Alex as part of our team, and proud to see his work recognized at the state level.
Join Us for the 2026 Farmers Market Season Opening Day.
Saturday, May 2, 2026
9:00am – 1:00pm
106 W. Main Street, Walla Walla
We invite you to come kick-off the start of the season with us and celebrate Alex’s work.
Enjoy live music with Coyote Joe 9:00am - 12:00pm
Meet the Artist for the 2026 season poster design: Michael Morris 10:00am – 12:00pm
Meet you at the market.