Page 13 - Demo

13Uptown Port TownsendAt Port Townsend Farmers Market, items travel no more than 50 miles from Jefferson and neighboring counties to reach the market in uptown Port Townsend. While the market winds down on the third Saturday in December, you%u2019ll find clusters of freshly baked goods, produce, crafts and breakfast items at stalls and booths in late morning through early afternoon. Since 1895, Aldrich%u2019s Market has served the historic uptown community, but recently underwent a remarkable change of ownership and layout. Now, the downstairs shelves overflow with excellent clothing, books, liquor and other gifts %u2014 along with a wide range of epicurean treats and everyday grocery items.A new independent bookstore-publishing house (Winter Texts) and game shop (Strange Days) entered Aldrich%u2019s mezzanine space around two years ago, transforming it into a buzzy upstairs community hub to meet, play games and drink coffee (served downstairs). Kids can even ride a coin-operated humpback whale.Just outside, Lawrence Street%u2019s weathered and restored historic buildings are lined with an afternoon%u2019s browsing and snacking, including Second Child, Green Crow Taco, the flagship store for Takara jewelry and Up Store, an upscale consignment clothing and housewares shop that recently expanded into a larger space. Port Townsend activitiesArt is everywhere in Port Townsend, with entry points for even the casual visitor. Northwind Art School offers ongoing adult jewelry workshops and art classes, including special holiday art classes in collage cards, handprinted wrapping paper and evergreen wreaths. Imprint Bookshop features author talks and writing workshops. The Rose Theater changed hands a few years ago, but remains family-owned and independent. Follow the scent of popcorn inside to find arthouse and big hits on the theater%u2019s intimate screens. Port Townsend Vineyards Winery presents live music Thursday through Sunday evenings and afternoons %u2014 and you%u2019ll find musicians, open mics, trivia and other entertainment throughout downtown%u2019s pubs. More active visitors might plan to explore one of Washington%u2019s last remaining camas flower prairies. Over the past several years, more than 100 volunteers have worked to improve and revitalize the 121-year-old Camas Prairie Park, expanding its golf course and natural areas with native plants, and introducing a disc golf course. The park will soon develop a miniature puttputt course.