Dayton Arcade launches new series of seasonal vendor fairs
Returning to its 1902 roots as Dayton’s central marketplace, the Dayton Arcade’s Rotunda once again welcomes local small business vendors for the first in a series of seasonal Market Day events.
Spring Market Day at the Arcade is a free, family friendly event from 3 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 23. This event will include more than 30 local vendors, live performances curated by Culture Works, and a cash bar featuring seasonal favorites. The Contemporary Dayton art gallery will also have The Co Shop open with a focus on multicultural artists, woman creators and sustainable items, perfect for local and unique Mother’s Day gifts.
“As the Dayton region rebounds post-pandemic, the Dayton Arcade is pleased to once again be a center for exciting community events supporting both the arts and local businesses,” says Megan Dunn Peters, Arcade community manager.
Startup Grounds, a bistro located in The Hub Powered by PNC, will be open during Spring Market Day and offer extended dinner options at 31 S. Main St. Guests can round out their experience by visiting many local restaurants, breweries and tap houses within walking distance.
“When it was built, the Arcade was intended to be a space for commerce where Dayton residents could gather, meet with friends, and do a little shopping,” Dunn Peters says. “It’s been great watching this sleeping giant assume that role for the community once again.” The Arcade hosted its first local vendor fairs over the holidays with a throw-back to the Holly Days events. Dozens of small businesses fanned out in the Rotunda, and guests could browse, graze on snacks from food vendors and enjoy live performances, including a special preview from the Dayton Ballet’s “Nutcracker” holiday special.
A full list of performers, vendors, and nearby places to eat and drink can be found at www.arcadedayton.com.
More Shopping
In addition to the activities at the Arcade, local vendors and artisans can also be found at Front Street Gallery, a collection of artists and artisan merchants in Dayton. The space is open to the public on First Fridays and Third Sundays. The outdoor marketplace for Third Sundays will re-open in April and continue through October. Both events include food trucks and live music.
The Yellow Cab Tavern also hosts monthly vendors during its Food Truck Rallies and the Night Market events. Food truck rallies take place in the evenings the second Friday of the month, and brunch rallies return every fourth Sunday at the Dayton venue. Night Markets accompany the food truck rallies, but check out their social media page for special pop-up events.
