SoWa Open Market Kicks Off 2017 Season On April 29 with Saturday Expansion

With the mission to build community and support local small businesses, the award-winning SoWa Open Market will kick off its 14th season on Saturday, April 29, and expand its weekly celebration of more than 150 of the region’s best makers to every Saturday and Sunday through October.

The announcement is the conclusion of a long process by the operator to gain neighborhood and City approval for the expansion of the Market to Saturdays. In February, they got the approval of the Old Dover Neighborhood Association by a vote of 23-7. Last week, the Public Events Commission gave them the nod to proceed with permitting.

Now, every weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., regulars to the SoWa Open Market and newcomers can enjoy handmade artisan goods, fresh foods, iconic food trucks, craft beers and live music.

Located in a vibrant community of artist studios, galleries, design showrooms, boutiques, restaurants, and the SoWa Vintage Market, the SoWa Open Market is the perfect weekend destination and attracts thousands of visitors from across New England. New this season, proceeds from sales of exclusive SoWa merchandise and donation collection boxes will go towards a local non-profit organization each month.

“Arts, culture and creativity are part of the DNA of our great city and the SoWa Arts & Design District and Open Market are a vital element of our cultural infrastructure,” said Julie Burros, Chief of Arts and Culture for the City of Boston. “The market actively celebrates the work of the many talented local artists, crafts people and entrepreneurs providing them with the opportunity to share their work with the public and connect with customers and fans.”

According to GTI Properties President Mario Nicosia, “This year, visitors will be able to enjoy the vibrancy of the Market and surrounding neighborhood throughout the weekend, and we’re pleased to be able to give back to our city with donations benefitting some of the best local non-profit organizations.”

On opening day of the market on April 29, more than 60 Massachusetts brewers will come together for the first ever Power Beer Fest at the SoWa Power Station. For $55 a person, guests can sip on unlimited two-ounce beer samples from participating breweries with proceeds benefiting the Massachusetts Brewers Guild, a nonprofit organization that protects and promotes the interests of craft brewers across the Commonwealth.

The SoWa Open Market spans a three-block area along Harrison Avenue and Thayer Street in Boston’s South End neighborhood. Each weekend, the market will have a different theme, varying from Backyard BBQ to Boston Fashion Week, a DIY maker series and more, with corresponding activities from vendors and special menu items from a variety of food trucks.

The SoWa Open Market is comprised of:

  • SoWa Arts Market: Over 100 talented, carefully selected artisans selling an array of quality handmade goods, including jewelry, art work, clothing, pottery, home goods, photography, ceramics, and more. Located in the parking lot at 450 Harrison Avenue.
  • SoWa Farmers Market: A collection of local farmers, bakers, and tasty treat makers. Over 50 vendors are on display each weekend, armed with fresh veggies, meats, flowers, sauces, and an assortment of delicious snacks. Located in the parking lot at 500 Harrison Ave.
  • SoWa Food Truck Bazaar: 12 of Boston’s most iconic Food Trucks line up every weekend for visitors to savor their delicious culinary creations, and throughout the season visitors will enjoy a series of food truck themes, including Backyard BBQ, Tacopocalypse, Boston Lobster Party and more. Located in the parking lot at 540 Harrison Ave.
  • SoWa Beer Garden: Brought to you by Eat Boston, the SoWa Beer Garden will be located alongside the SoWa Food Truck Bazaar offering a rotating selection of craft beers to enjoy all season long.

The SoWa Art & Design District recently launched a brand refresh including a new logo, 2017 programming and more. For additional information and to view upcoming themes and events, please visit www.SoWaBoston.com.

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