Now that spring weather has graced the area with its presence, we’re eager to take our shopping outdoors. You’re already familiar with local staples such as Eastern Market and neighborhood farmers markets—but for those seeking a fresher experience, where to go on a beautiful spring Saturday in search of antiques and decor? Vintage frocks? Handmade jewelry? Read on for a primer on some of the area’s best spring retail markets, from returning outdoor pop-ups to trendy out-of-town newcomers. Tip: Mark your calendar for April 5, when many of the events kick off.
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Dock 5 at Union Market, 1039 Fifth St., NE
When: April 4 from 1 to 7, April 5 from 11 to 7, and April 6 from 11 to 5
Union Market’s second pop-up retail experience returns to Dock 5 for three days, featuring temporary installations of such esteemed local brands as Politics & Prose, Mutiny, and St. Clair Jewelry. A few national names will also be in attendance, as well as a new showcase dubbed Here & Now of up-and-coming fashion brands. See our original post for more info.
DC MeetMarket
The lot at 1514 15th St., NW
When: 11 to 5 on the first Saturday of every month from April through November
Organized by husband-and-wife team designer Virgnia Arrisueño and street artist Kelly Towles DC MeetMarket aims to showcase the works of emerging local craftspeople and business owners. The market’s 40-plus vendors include beauty, fashion, kids’ clothing, and jewelry brands, in addition to food trucks, live music, and a slew of DC-based artists. See the impressive list of vendors online.
District Flea
The lot at 945 Florida Ave., NW
When: Every Saturday from 10 to 5, beginning April 5 (ongoing)
Inspired by the success and planned by the organizers of New York’s popular Brooklyn Flea events, District Flea returns to the U Street corridor this month for its second run in Washington. You’ll find an eclectic array of items ranging from vintage dresses by Gypsy de la Lune to paintings by Cherry Blossom Creative to gelato by Dolcezza.
U Street Flea
The lot at 912 U St., NW
When: Every Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 5 (ongoing)
With a huge mix of antiques, crafts, jewelry, art, furniture from vendors hand-picked by the same team behind DC staple Eastern Market, a revamped U Street Flea returns to the trendy neighborhood this year for the first time since 2008. Though the market is primarily retail-based, look for food and drink vendors sprawled throughout, as well as participation from a few nearby shops.
Georgetown French Market
Upper Wisconsin Ave. between P St. and Reservoir Rd., NW
When: April 25 and 26 from 10 to 5
Back for its 11th year later this month, this annual outdoor shopping destination in Georgetown’s Book Hill neighborhood is designed to emulate an authentic Parisian open-air market. More than 30 local boutiques, galleries, cafes and more will display the best of their spring offerings—many at steep discounts—alongside French musicians and vendors serving croissants and coffee. Unlike most outdoor markets, this event offers more modern shopping as opposed to antiques and handmade crafts, with Duo, Britt Ryan, and Urban Chic among stylish participants.
