Conceived and developed in 1988 by Richard "Mike" Rankin, the Hilo Farmers Market had a humble beginning with only four farmers who sold their goods from their parked cars and trucks. Today, the market has grown to over 124 vendors selling everything from fresh island fruits and vegetables to locally grown tropical flowers, special Big Island food products, handmade craft items and beautiful gifts made with Aloha. If you are looking for the best deals on produce or a special gift that says "The Big Island", you'll find it at The Hilo Farmers Market. We have a high tech side too -- the Hilo Farmers Market was the first open market in the nation to be federally approved to accept food stamps by way of a unique electronic system and EBT cards. The Hilo Farmers Market is considered to be one of the best open markets on the Big Island and in the State of Hawaii.