Eastern Market is much more than a market -- it is a self-proclaimed “community hub,” boasting indoor and outdoor venues that feature local retail and food merchants, as well as a community event space that is available for rent. The market’s array of seasonal programs, affordable stall rentals, and its newly renovated building lend the space its bustling, beautiful, and inclusive atmosphere. The market’s vibrant energy has radiated out into the surrounding community, aiding the success of other businesses nearby.

The South Hall, open every day except for Monday, is home to 13 permanent shops selling everything from seafood to pottery to artisanal cheeses. “Market Lunch” is South Hall’s prepared food vendor, serving up their city-famous blueberry buckwheat pancakes. On Tuesday evenings, an open-air farmers’ market sets up outside the market hall building, where visitors can purchase local produce and prepared snacks. Local artists and crafters can be found selling their goods on the surrounding streets and plazas of the market on weekends. And if that’s not enough to entice you, check out the open-air flea market each Sunday, featuring over 100 exhibitors from five continents.

Operating continuously from 1873 to 2007, Washington DC’s Eastern Market is housed in one of the few historic public market buildings left in the region. After a three-alarm fire badly damaged the building in 2007, vendors were temporarily moved outside during repairs until the market reopened in 2009. The market is located in DC’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, a short walk from the National Mall, and easily accessible by Metro, with a stop located just a block north.

Image credits: Zach Stern via Flickr, AgnosticPreachersKid via Wikimedia Commons, EvinDC via Flickr

Website: www.easternmarket-dc.org

Twitter: @EasternMarketDC

Facebook: facebook.com/EasternMarketDC