Ready, set ... Mark your calendars! May signals the return of two popular events at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market—the Vintage Street Market and Made in Michigan Pop-Up Marketplace. Both events occur once a month, May through September.
And this year, they're bigger—and better—than ever.
"Farm house chic is all the rage."
If objects could be soul mates, you may just find yours at the Vintage Street Market—Grand Rapids' only monthly vintage market. It's held on the second Sunday of every month, May through September. And the season opener is Mother's Day, May 14. "Does it get any better than vintage shopping and eating at the Downtown Market with Mom?" said Amanda Gielczyk, director of marketing and special events.
With over 40 vendor booths selling a variety of eclectic, classic and unique pieces, there are plenty of opportunities to find that perfect couture dress, hand-painted sideboard or any treasure to complete your collection. Among the returning favorites, shoppers can find vintage clothing at Good Witch, vintage bridal bouquets from Madame Grace Vintage and rarities from K&D Antiques.
"Farm house chic is all the rage in the industry," Gielczyk said, "so shoppers can look for rustic meets elegance in a blend of barn beams, unique chandeliers, mercury glass, one of a kind furniture pieces and more."
The Vintage Street Market runs from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Other dates are June 11, July 9, August 13 and September 10.
"It's sure going to be good."
Soak up local goodness at the Made in Michigan Pop-Up Marketplace, now on the fourth Saturday of each month, beginning May 27.
More than 50 quality vendors specialize in Michigan-made (and Michigan-grown) goods and gifts including jewelry, clothing, housewares, paper goods, treats and more. Hides and Stitches offers eminent leather goods, Albright Farms sells its homegrown succulents, and Grayling Ceramics offers ceramic mugs and growlers.
"You truly never know what you're going to find, but you can rest easy knowing it's sure going to be good," Gielczyk said.
The Made in Michigan Pop-Up Marketplace is held outdoors, under the Market Shed, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Future dates are June 24, July 22, August 26 and September 23.
While both the Vintage Market and Pop-Up Marketplace run throughout the morning and afternoon, there's a lot to see—and goods sell out. Gielczyk recommends getting there early. Make a day of it and hop inside the Market Hall to grab lunch from any of the 20-plus vendors.
Written by Cassie Westrate, staff writer for West Michigan Woman magazine.
Photo courtesy of the Grand Rapids Downtown Market.
