I follow Capital City Market on Instagram and have seen their post about why they moved, declining sales, etc. I do understand (as much as someone who doesn't operate markets can) the constraints of running a small open market but honestly I'm confused by their explanation. While at the Grove, the market appeared busier, more market-friendly/themed, open, central, filled out. I can see how the location of vendor booths (at the Grove) could cause customers to pass by or go towards one specific direction and miss other vendors, but isn't there a way to mitigate that other than moving to an entirely different location... which is dirt lot?
Additionally, every year they grow, I keep hoping and hoping they will add more food/drink vendors because there are very little breakfast options or iced coffee/latte options :( but every year it seems to stay the same. I'm sure this has been considered by their team but - maybe it's not the location and more so that people can't buy $50 handmade dog leashes/collars every weekend or, the other booth that sells super fancy wooden fire places?? Although those are great and I have bought pet items many times, I don't think those types of vendors cater towards what people are wanting from...
Read moreUPDATE: So glad to see the market moved back to the grove!! Organizers took the feedback and made the change mid-season, which I'm sure was difficult. We decided to make the trip down there again with our baby and had a wonderful time, even in the heat!! Thank you for listening to your patrons!
Old review: We visit the market every year and were excited to go this morning. Unfortunately, their new location leaves a lot to be desired and I don't think we will be returning, especially as the months get hotter. The dirt lot is hot, lacks accessible shade, and is just plain uncomfortable. We found ourselves passing several vendors and leaving much earlier than we had planned due to the heat, especially toting around our baby in her stroller. Sure, there's a patch of shaded grass at the back by the portapotties, but I don't come to the market to sit and enjoy the view of a dirt lot (a point I think the organizers are not understanding from the various feedback they've gotten). I really hope they find a new place because this aint it and I can't see this lasting at all. Sales are important, but there's no way this move is going to increase sales when your customers are literally miserable and don't want...
Read moreThis market is on Idaho St. The website still shows Main. If you do attend this market, street parking enforcement is strict. Pay the extra dollar or two and avoid the ticket. The market has one or two veggie vendors. Most of them are at the Americana location. There is a local cidery, wooden utensil maker, pet collars and leashes, spices, garlic, taco and Ethiopian food stalls, garlic, wall art, metal and glass jewelry, macrame, driftwood hanging decor, a winery, an Asian inspired pottery maker on the east end, a more hippie inspired pottery maker on the west end and more. The obligatory guy, yelling you need to find Jesus, is there. They do allow well-behaved dogs. There is something for everyone.
I snagged some cider and four beautiful bowl from the west end...
Read more