Locals will have even more reasons to shop Downtown this summer as the new Sunlight Market event series will offer a unique new weekend experience for those interested in visiting Gay Street. Building upon the success of the Moonlight Market, the Gay Street Collaborative Business Association will produce the Sunlight Market every third Sunday between April and October from 10am to 3pm, combining brick and mortar brunch menus with hip sidewalk street vendors selling artisan goods and products.
“Eleven years ago on a Sunday in April, Due Amici launched its Bloody Mary Brunch on Gay Street,” said Due Amici Owner Jeff Mathes. “For eleven years strong we have welcomed friends old and new. Gay Street is ripe for this Sunday Sunlight Market and we expect the market will be as rewarding as the Moonlight Markets have been for us over the past three seasons.”
The Sunlight Market will take place on April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, September 18 and October 16. The Moonlight Market will continue to take place every Second Saturday during the same months. Some of the businesses participating in the Sunlight Market include Zen Cha Tea Salon, zerOz, J. Gumbo’s, Due Amici, Tip Top Kitchen & Cocktails, Plantain Cafe and more.
“It’s here — the energy, people, stories and streets meet up with a dynamic inventive community,” said Paul Westrick, owner of zerOz wallet shop. “We love being down here and we love welcoming everyone. zerOz has grown exponentially because we’re part of the core of Downtown columbus.”
Since its launch in 2013, the original Moonlight Market has expanded each year to accommodate more and more sidewalk vendors. With over 100 businesses participating each month in 2015 and a waiting list for spaces, the timing to add the Sunlight Market is ripe for 2016.
The Sunlight Market is receiving support from The Day Companies, which has signed on as a presenting season sponsor for 2016. The Day Companies has become well known as a leader in Gay Street’s revitalization, renovating multiple buildings at Gay and High, including the historic Madison building. The Sunlight Market also receives additional support from the Capital Crossroads Special Improvement District.
Additionally, the Sunlight Market is an official partner of the Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) Street Performer program, which connects local musicians and entertainers with community festivals in Central Ohio and provides matching funds so that performers can be paid a fair wage for their artistic talents.
The Sunlight Market is free for shoppers and visitors to attend.
More information can be found online at www.sunlightmarket.com.