Celebrating its 100th birthday this year, Pike Place Market is considered by many to be the soul of Seattle.
With more than 10 million visitors annually, the market is the number one tourist attraction in Washington State.
17 August 1907 saw the birth of this Seattle icon with eight farmers, angry at the small percentage they earned from their produce, bringing their wagons of fresh produce to the corner of First Avenue and Pike Street.
They were completely overwhelmed by an estimated 10,000 eager shoppers and were sold out before noon. Within months the first market building opened with every space filled.
One hundred years later, Pike Place Market is situated in the same spot with a great view of Elliot Bay.
The aroma of fresh flowers and home-grown produce is overwhelming and in between the bustle of people you can experience the famous fish throwing beneath the well-known entrance sign.
No chain stores are allowed in the market, apart from the very first Starbucks, and the farmers, artists and craftspeople locally produce all the wares and goods sold.
To celebrate its centenary, Pike Place Market is holding special events like the Market Street Festival and Sunset Supper, community events and parades, such as Pigs on Parades.
The festivities culminate with a fantastic party on the market's cobblestones on August 17.
For more information, visit www.pikeplacemarket.com.
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