The Columbus Moonlight Market kicked off its 2014 season on Saturday, April 12th. The perfect combination of beautiful weather, great business participation, and a healthy dose of cabin fever drew thousands to the event, keeping the sidewalks of Gay Street packed from 6pm through 11pm.
“We’ve got to keep doing this year in and year out and make it a regular thing and people will know automatically that it’s Moonlight Market weekend and that they’ve got to come on down here to Gay Street,” said Mayor Michael Coleman during the season kickoff event at Cafe Brioso. “I believe in this street so much that I moved here. So I’m a resident as well as a cheerleader for this area.”
Many of the sidewalk vendors and brick and mortar businesses reported record or near-record sales for the event series, which was referred to as a welcome influx of foot traffic following a brutal winter and cold start to spring. Returning vendors included Candle with a Cause, Ghetto Vintage and the Columbus Barrel Co among others. Popular new additions included Willowbeez SoulVeg, Pursuit, Manna Banna and Orbit City Bikes. Over 60 businesses participated in Saturday’s event.
“This is our most looked forward to and beloved weekend of each month,” said Robert Grimmet, owner of Robert Mason Co, the pop-up shop located inside Sugardaddy’s. “Moonlight Market is like having Black Friday each month.”
Another new feature this year came in the form of street performers and entertainment. This addition was made possible through the new Street Performer Program launched recently by GCAC. Juggler/Unicyclist Evan Smith drew a lot of attention with his street antics earlier in the evening, while musician Chris Shaw serenaded the patio at J. Gumbo’s later in the evening.
The next Moonlight Market takes place Saturday, May 10th. The event will continue every Second Saturday through December from 6pm to 11pm with a rotating mix of vendors, entertainers and other surprises.
For more information, visit www.moonlightmarketcolumbus.com.
All photos by Shelby Lum.