WIMBERLEY MARKET DAYS

Shop ‘til ya drop! Wimberley Market Days

By ERNIE ALTGELT

If you’re reading this, chances are pretty darn good that you’re already in wondrous Wimberley (or, at least planning a trip soon) and possibly wondering what all there is to do. Well, for most folks, their initial reasons for coming here generally relate to the river, resorts, relaxation, revelry, restaurants and, of course, even a bit of retailing (i.e., shopping). And, regarding unique and special Wimberley-centric activities, it’s that last entry on the list where this story is going … big time!

Yep, if you’re in the “market” for an exciting blast, not to mention the acquisition of a few, choice bargains then, just keep reading.

So, come the first Saturday of each month from March through December, this blissful bucolic burg becomes the beloved epicenter to “any and all” seeking “all and any” by regularly staging its renown Wimberley Market Days, which by definition is nothing less than the Texas Hill Country’s largest outdoor “market for almost everything.”Wow!

Featuring hundreds of diversely-inventoried (and eager to sell) vendors ably supported by ample amounts of savory edible’s and audibles, spread all across an accommodating and comfortable, well-shaded and pavilioned 19-acre park only a short drive from the town’s iconic square and, well, you get the picture (which, in many artistic forms, will be available at a Wimberley Market Day too)!

See MARKET DAYS, Page 20

GRINGA’S GRUB SHACK 411 FM 2325

Burgers, fish tacos, tacos, sandwiches, more. 512-648-9259, facebook.com/GringasGrubShak.

TRIFORKS FOOD TRUCK 411 FM 2325

Sandwiches, delicious burgers, sandwiches, fries, mac ‘n cheese and more. 512-648-1835.

WIMBERLEY SHAVE ICE 411 FM 2325

100-plus delicious and unique flavors of shave ice with something for all tastes. 512-497-9861.

PHO-LISHA’S FOOD TRUCK 14306 Ranch Road 12

Asian-inspired cuisine plus a variety of Cajun dishes. Don’t miss the Phoritto! 225-276-9928. pholishas.com.

CREEKSIDE COOKERS 14306 Ranch Road 12. Brisket, chicken, ribs, sausage, pulled pork plus traditional sides. 512-947-1609, creeksidecookers.com.

MIDDLETON BREWING

101 Oakwood Loop • 512-847-3435 • MBTX Burger Shop Burgers, veggie burgers, tater tots and coleslaw. www.middletonbrewingtx.com/food-trucks. “The Boot Whisperer”

Wild West The O

Store

HUNDREDS OF VINTAGE COWBOY BOOTS

Buy! Sell! Trade!

Just off the Wimberley Square Olde Towne Plaza - 13709 RR 12

as seen on BBC World News July 2013

“Go for a consultation with the Boot Whisperer, who reads feet like a psychic reads palms.” Texas Monthly, August 2010

Open by appointment. Please call in advance 512-293-4890.

317 FM 2325 Wimberley, Texas 78676

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram @wimberley.marketplace www.wimberleymarketplace.com

Packed from floor to ceiling with your favorite things!

Located on the Wimberley Square

100 Oak Drive • 512-847-2113

Jewelry Glam, Glitz & Glitter Mudpie Baby Gifts & Baby Outfits Rain Chains Collection Wax Scent Chip Lanterns Tyler Candles, Melts & Laundry Soaps Texas Gourmet Foods Texas & Wimberley T-Shirts Texas Ranch Room Collection Pure TexasHoney & Fused Honey

First held in the mid-1960s in a much smaller format actually staged on town square, it only comprised a few temporary stalls selling only a few things. But, it was that humble beginning that would inevitably take root and explode in size and scope when the local chapter of the Lion’s Club took the reins. That was in 1969, when the Wimberley Lions Club was first chartered. Since then, the Wimberley Market Days has steadily grown attracting more sellers, buyers and, even those simply looking to witness something unique. More importantly, not only is each market day bushels of fun but in total, has raised an amazing amount benefiting many area charities and local youth programs including scholarships. Hoorah!

Since those early days, expectations have grown (and been met) by the thousands who are drawn each season to the market. This year’s “first Saturdays” will continue that trend despite COVID-19 which may affect concession and live-music performances again in 2021. But, as required, CDC guidelines will be instituted to ensure the safety of all.

Even so, there will still be more than 400 participating vendors scheduled tendering genuine antiques, delightful collectibles, perky plants, funky yard art, an impressive array of fine art, bubbling fountains, fun and fancy jewelry, must-have home décor accents, handmade artisan furniture, packaged culinary comestibles and, so much more.

Many of the items on sale will be offered by the actual artisan/craftsman that created the same. Really, it’s a great opportunity to meet these talented people and learn about their wares’ inceptions. And, with so much diversity, there definitely will be something for everybody – no matter the budget. Couple the cool wares with ten food/refreshment stands where delicious hot dogs, tacos and sausage wraps as well as soft drinks, beer and even wine can be purchased. Shopping is hungry work!

In closing, there are never any admission costs for attending these events. However, there is a modest $5 parking donation at marked Lion’s Parking Lots which goes entirely to support charitable causes. Vendor participation fees are likewise allocated. All working are volunteer as well – there’s no payroll deducting from the charitable profits. And, since the Wimberley Lion’s Club oversight 50 years ago, more than four million dollars has remarkably been raised for numerous worthwhile (local and regional) organizations all established with the intent of benefiting those in need. Double wow! Photos courtesy

wiMBerLey Lions MarKet Days.

FYI • This year’s Wimberley Market Days scheduled dates again are the first Saturdays of each month from March through December. For additional, comprehensive information including the market’s location and participating vendor requirements visit the website at wimberleymarketday.com or, visit their page at Facebook/Wimberley Lions.

Photo by Gable and Roost.