Tartu market has 90 sales spots. But there are fewer small vendors selling things grown in their own gardens.
The market manager Priit Värv says there are very few such people now. There used to be more.
If vendors don't have a long-term contract, they have to buy a day ticket. It costs 7 euros. Small vendors find it hard to compete with big stores.
Priit Värv says there are many shops in Estonia. Big stores sell cheaper. Small vendors can't compete with them.
There are also fewer customers. Older people have passed away. There aren't as many new customers.
Vendor Piret says people are struggling financially. Life has become more expensive.
Another vendor Raivo agrees with her. He says rent and other costs are high.
Some vendors say this year has been calmer. But sales are still smaller.
Vendor Illar sells potatoes. He used to sell much more. Now he sells only a few kilos a day.
Many vendors have left Tartu. Young people sell more on Facebook. They don't want to stand behind a stall at the market.
Priit Värv believes markets won't disappear. Small markets will remain. But big markets like Tartu's may change.
Young teenagers help preserve the tradition. They work at the market in summer and gain experience.