Stocked Markets Local farmers markets offer everything from organic produce to ostrich sausage .
Markets exist in all cultures.
Italy has leather and gold markets, gorgeous flower fairs line the streets of France, and open-air vendors in Prague mix rice crackers with wooden toys on the same table. Right here in Portland we have Saturday Market, the country's largest outdoor forum, as well as a half dozen farmers markets in the Metro area. The media glut has long displaced markets' function as news centers, but folks gather for reasons beyond mere commerce, and markets are still educational. In addition to helping shoppers identify unusual produce and offering cooking tips, many markets are introducing customers to a new way of shopping. Mothers receive 10 two-dollar coupons and must participate in a fruits and vegetables nutrition class.