New urban marketplace finds home in Providence
March 1, 2007 | Print this page | Share This |
Organizers of Boston's South End Open Market are bringing their concept to downtown Providence, where retailers hope to cash in on the anticipated jolt of activity their weekly events will bring.
"The merchants on Westminster have been extremely enthusiastic and are eagerly anticipating market this spring," says Providence Open Market Director Chris Masci.
Masci has been working closely with the Providence Department of Art, Culture and Tourism, the Providence Downtown Merchants Association and the Westminster Business Alliance with hopes of duplicating the success the South End Open Market has enjoyed in Boston's once "sleepy" Sowa district. The Providence Open Market will set up shop at the corner of Westminster and Union streets downtown, near the site of the former Traveler's Aid building.
"Our weekly market started out with 35 vendors per Sunday four years ago, now we have between 100 and 150 every Sunday and (Sowa) has become a bustling destination for tourists and locals in the spring, summer and fall," Masci says.
Visitors to the Providence Open Market will discover a unique center chock full of art, food, fragrant blooms, do-it-yourself crafts and designer wares from established artisans including jewelry, handbags, accessories, sculpture and clothing along with affordable mid-century modern furniture, antiques and collectibles. Organizers are reaching out to the Rhode Island School of Design and the greater arts community so that students and beginners will showcase their skills alongside seasoned professionals.
"On opening weekend last year (South End) had roughly 7,000 people come through," Masci says. "I'm hoping with the success of the market in Boston, it will help jump-start our season here in Rhode Island."
The Providence Open Market hopes to connect with the increasing number of people who will call downtown Providence their home, with the completion of several condominium projects over the next year. The organizers anticipate it will be an ideal place for locals to meet their new neighbors and enjoy a cup of coffee while taking a leisurely stroll. And with an ever-changing group of artisans, free admission, a hip convenient location and plenty of parking, it's sure to be a hit with out-of-town visitors as well.
The Providence Open Market will be open from May 12 to Oct. 27, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the parking lot at the corner of Westminster and Union streets in downtown Providence. For more information visit www.providenceopenmarket.com
