SPL LIVING
To Market We (Hope To) Go As we head into fall, the season when outdoor markets generally gear up, it’s hard to be certain what the rest of the year holds in store. Many markets closed or suffered losses and hardships through the pandemic the last season. Now, with less mandates and more open businesses, our fingers are crossed that local outdoor markets will return.
Here, we take a look at St. Pete’s market scene heading into this fall. Be forewarned, managers and vendors may decide at any time to close, change hours or drop out. We suggest you check online or social media before heading out.
Saturday Morning Market Since opening in 2002, St. Pete’s Saturday Morning Market has established itself as a beloved institution, a regular weekly gathering spot for downtown residents to grab breakfast or lunch, pick up some fresh produce, cheese and baked goods, roam through plants, hats, crafts and clothing, and listen to some homegrown music.
“We plan to open and operate as usual, as long as it’s safe to do so,” said market manager Gail Eggeman.
- Marcia Biggs GULFPORT PHOTOS/LARRY BUSBY
From October through May, the market attracts thousands of people from across Tampa Bay every weekend (except during Grand Prix). Some 140 vendors from as far away as Punta Gorda have been coming every year to set up early Saturday mornings in the Al Lang Field parking lot, where the market is held. During summer months a smaller version of the market moves to Williams Park. Last year, things looked a lot different. After shutting down completely, fences went up to monitor attendees, masks were mandatory, and tables and chairs had been removed; there was no live music. Still, the regulars came, pushing strollers, walking dogs, greeting friends and neighbors. What will the Saturday Morning Market look like this fall when it opens October 2?
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StPeteLifeMag.com
September/October 2021
Saturday Morning Market opens October 2 and runs weekly from 9 am to 2 pm in the Al Lang Field parking lot at the corner of 1st Street S. and 1st Avenue S.
