There are plenty of reasons why Cincinnati is one of the coolest cities in the country: we've got awesome live music, an incredible foodie scene and pretty fantastic parks...and, come this Saturday, the city will once again hold its very own monthly pop-up City Flea.
The City Flea was dreamed up by Cincy natives Nick and Lindsay Dewald, who returned to the city after spending time living in one of the country's coolest places: Brooklyn. While in NYC, the couple enjoyed frequent trips to the hip Brooklyn Flea to grab coffee, find a unique gift, or just browse through the local crafts and goods. After moving back to Cincinnati, they were surprised to find the city in the middle of a cultural Reinassance of sorts-- it was the perfect time for the Dewalds to bring the concept of a curated, urban market to their hometown.
So what exactly is a "curated, urban flea market"? According to an interview with Urban Cincy, it's all about making sure the goods are, well, good. When you visit the City Flea, chances are you're probably going to walk away with at least one unexpected (but totally awesome) purchase. Says Lindsay:
“We want people to know it could be a well thought out, well curated sort of market that showcases local artists and collectors...There’s not going to be much rummaging through to get to the good stuff. The good stuff, you’re gonna see as soon as you walk in.”
Since the first City Flea in June of 2011, the event has grown rapidly. It now hosts more of the best local vendors, quirky musicians, and mouth-wateringly delicious food trucks than ever. The City Flea is currently held at Washington Park in the revitalized historic neighborhood of Over-the-Rhine once a month, but the hope is that it will, someday, be a weekly event-- we can dream, right?
Dates and times for the rest of the season are 10 am to 4pm on July 12, August 16, September 20, and October 11. On November 30, a market will be held at 21c Museum Hotel and the Contemporary Arts Center, and a holiday market will take place December 13 Holiday Market at Washington Park from 5 pm until 10 pm.