A guide to Richmond’s most eccentric local markets
Illustration done by Lauryn Baynes.
Devynn Alston, Contributing Writer
Richmond is home to a multitude of markets, from clothing, to art to produce. Many events are happening in the city over the next several months, giving students the opportunity to check them out.
Richmond Makers Market
Richmond Makers Market is a place for artists to tell you about their work, and the market has created a safe space for queer people, holding a queer weekend during Pride month. They are also small-business friendly, with over 70 local businesses and organizations participating. The market is interactive and entertaining, with a strong sense of community, according to their website.
Swap Meet RVA
Swap Meet RVA aims to be more than just a market, as it is a vibrant hub where local entrepreneurs, artists and thrifters are all in one place, according to their website. It was founded and organized by locals who wanted to provide a platform for small businesses, artisans and food vendors. The market aims to celebrate creativity, diversity and sustainability. The next six events will run from Sept. 14 until Nov. 16, according to their Instagram. Swap Meet RVA meets every other Sunday, primarily at Main Street Station.
Richmond Moon Market
The Richmond Moon Market promotes curated crafts and focuses on wellness. It brings together Virginia’s weirdest, wildest and most wonderful artists, according to their website. The market features diverse vendors like fortune tellers, crystals, magical supplies, vintage gear and more, and often sets up booths on VCU’s campus. Moon Market frequently meets at Stone Brewing Company, but will be operating a market at Gallery 5 on Sept. 5 for First Friday.
Richmond Night Market
The Richmond Night Market is one of many markets on the 17th Street venue. It is held every second Saturday, from April to December, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The market highlights independent artists, creates an environment where the youth can play and dance to live music and for attendees to use their makerspace, according to their website.
17th Street Market
The 17th Street Market is one of the oldest public markets in America, and possibly Richmond’s longest-running continuous farmers’ market. The market has been the center for commerce and connection for over 200 years, and hosts a plethora of different markets, including its regular biweekly market. It is considered a vibrant part of Shockoe Bottom and serves as a community resource, according to RVA.GOV website.
Birdhouse Market
The Birdhouse Market is a hub for healthy food-related community activities that look to strengthen Richmond’s local food system and improve the health and well-being of the community, according to their website. Dedicated to providing fresh produce to Richmond, they offer online shopping with curbside pickup, a service helpful for those with disabilities or those who just do not have time to make it to the store.
