Located under the Burnside Bridge on both sides of SW First Avenue, the market sprawls for blocks and includes an international food court with everything from Pad Thai to African specialties and booths with vendors from all over the world. But on the South side of SW First, under the bridge is where – for Girlawhirl – all the fun starts. Juried artisans exhibit their wares: lots of glass, woodworking, metal sculptures, special foods, a cartoonist and more. There was also music and other entertainment, and a lively atmosphere that couldn't help but add to the fun and festive mood of the day.

Girlawhirl ended up leaving the market with gifts for almost everyone she knows; gorgeous glass pendants, pretty earrings and hair picks, wood bowls, cutting boards, and tasty treats for all.

And even though they call it the Saturday Market, from March through December, the market takes place on both Saturday and Sunday. For more information click here.

Even if she's eaten at the market, Girlawhirl always makes a pit stop up on SW 3^rd Avenue, just a block from the north edge of the market, at Voodoo Doughnut. All kinds of creative crullers, doughnuts and fritters are made on the premises of this 24-hour-a-day shop, and while it can be crowded on a Saturday morning with the market in full swing, it's always worth the wait.