Celebrating Leadership: Alex Heiser Joins the Washington State Farmers Market Association
If you’ve spent a Saturday morning at the Downtown Farmers Market, you’ve experienced the result of years of care, intention, and deep commitment to community.
We’re proud to share that Alex, our Farmers Market Director, 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.
A Role That Supports Markets Across Washington
The WSFMA Board is made up of market leaders, partners, and community members from across the state, all working together to guide the organization’s mission with integrity, accountability, and care.
As a board member, Alex will help shape conversations and decisions that impact farmers markets far beyond Walla Walla — supporting farmers, vendors, and communities throughout the state.
Leadership Rooted in Community
Here at home, Alex has played a key role in the continued growth and success of the Downtown Farmers Market.
Operating as a program of the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation, the market runs every Saturday from May through October at the Farmers Market Pavilion — bringing together local farmers, artisans, and makers in the heart of downtown.
Under Alex’s leadership, the market has grown not only in size, but in impact.
Vendors have seen record-breaking sales, including a milestone year in 2024
The market continues to prioritize locally grown and produced goods, with more than half of offerings coming directly from agricultural producers
The space has become a consistent place for connection, community, and small business growth
For many vendors, the Farmers Market is more than a place to sell, it’s a starting point. Several businesses that began at the market have since grown into full-time storefronts, contributing to the vitality of downtown year-round.
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’s leadership has helped nurture that environment, balancing logistics, growth, and community care in a way that keeps the market both strong and welcoming.
Looking Ahead
As Alex steps into this new role with WSFMA, we’re excited to see his experience and perspective contribute to farmers markets across the state while continuing to strengthen the market here at home.
This recognition reflects years of dedication, steady leadership, and a deep commitment to the people who make this work possible.
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.