Local gatherings like farmers markets aren't new concepts, but in the past few years, a boom in multi-vendor markets across DFW has created opportunities and challenges alike. With more time to cultivate nascent talents and an event at which to possibly monetize them in every other parking lot across town, the local artisan community is becoming more savvy with each passing weekend.
For those of us who seek to spend our dollars on truly handmade, up-cycled, refurbished, or otherwise unique local goods, we are growing weary of glorified garage sales masquerading as makers’ markets. So, to find the best bets, we spoke with many Dallas-area artisans and shoppers for their observations and recommendations.
First up, Brad Jensen is a multidisciplinary artist who has been showing on the local circuit for over a decade. He has noticed an undeniable uptick in the markets in recent years.
“Definitely,” he says.“[Newer] markets are leaning more toward curated experiences with food, music and art blended together. There’s more emphasis on storytelling and aesthetics now.”
Audrey Perry, a.k.a. The Treasure Peddler, makes a similar observation of the current market mania: “They’re everywhere.”
In addition to being a vendor herself, Perry has recently taken over as organizer of the monthly market at the popular dive bar, Double Wide. Now in its 15th season, the long-running event showcases a “vintage-forward” vendor selection.
“Items that have character, history, weirdness, nostalgic elements and uniqueness are what our crowd wants,” says Perry of what has established the Double Wide Flea as a longtime favorite.
Paige Davidson, an artist, ceramicist and gallery owner based in Gainesville, supports events hosted by unconventional venues like breweries and boutiques.
“For me, a day with less hassles and a lower market fee became more important than a bigger crowd and more vendors and publicity,” she says.
Additional vendor observations include a preference for events with a loyal following, as well as those with refreshments, easy parking and maybe even entertainment baked into the experience.
The bottom line on the seller side? While the cost to pitch your tent may vary greatly, as well as the market size, season and location, it’s all about the full experience. A well-organized event with a positive vibe and engaged following — be it through social media, email, or good old-fashioned word-of-mouth — is where you’ll find the best vendors.
For all you on the other side of the table, we’ve compiled the following cross-category must-visit markets based on feedback among local vendors and frequent buyers alike. There’s something here for everyone, but before you go, make sure to check individual websites for schedules and up-to-the-minute vendor lists.
Bishop Bazaar
200 N. Bishop Ave., Dallas, TX 75208Oak Cliff's Bishop Arts District is already brimming with excellent shopping options. The neighborhood's answer to the vendor market equation, however, adds live music and entertainment to a rotating selection of arts, crafts, gifts, apparel and even goodies for pets and kids. This market is off for the summer but returns in September.
Boho Market
Various locationsHosted on a (nearly) weekly basis across Dallas and the surrounding suburbs, events led by this booming franchise are ideal for those seeking to source cute, cool and trendy local finds while supporting small businesses.
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
8525 Garland Rd., Dallas, TX 75218You can’t beat the lush landscapes of the Arboretum as a backdrop for stylish seasonal markets, which showcase local clothing and accessories designers as well as fine artists and crafters. The greenspace offers various public events throughout the year, so there are many chances to check out the rotating collection of events.
Dallas Farmers Market
920 S. Hardwood St., Dallas, TX 75201This downtown mainstay's selection offers something locally made for everyone, from farm-to-table tacos to books, gifts, and wine, plus indie musicians busking in the shed. The market itself is open daily, but you can find many micro-markets taking up shop here regularly.
Dallas M.A.D.E.
Various locationsFormerly known as the Etsy Dallas Bash, this event gathers makers and crafters from the social media platform, favoring “creativity over competition” at highly anticipated seasonal events. Mark your calendar for November's Jingle Bash, an all-day market going down at Gilley's in the Cedars.
Double Wide Flea
3510 Commerce St., Dallas, TX 75226You might not be used to frequenting this storied Deep Ellum dive bar while the sun is still up, but its market is still hair-of-the-dog friendly. All things weird and wonderful are up for grabs at this monthly Sunday market, where you can shop for vintage vinyl, ‘70s threads and much more, all while keeping cool by sipping on a Yoohoo Yeehaw. This one, understandably, hits pause until September.
St. Michael’s Farmers Market
4344 Colgate Ave., Dallas, TX 75225.A true grassroots effort, this certified 501 (c)3 non-profit event features some of the best locally grown fruits and veggies, artisan baked goods, fresh flowers, and handmade finds. If you like to scope things out before you make the drive, you can check out the weekly and rotating vendors on the market's website.
Rock & Roll Rummage Sale
105 S. Main St., Fort Worth, TX 76104A favorite among exhibitors and shoppers alike and the largest event of its kind in Fort Worth, this fest is worth the drive out west to explore rows upon rows of vintage and thrift-y finds. The rummage happens several times a year, so it's best to keep up with upcoming events through its Instagram.
