New York has a slew of markets, both
indoor and
out.
This month, add to that the
Hester Street Fair, a new flea market that celebrates the culture and history of the neighborhood.
You see, more than 100 years ago, Hester Street at Essex was one of the busiest outdoor markets in the city, with the block "in a state of perpetual motion," according to a New York Times piece dated from 1895.
The market opened originally in 1865, with peddlers setting up pushcarts to sell their wares, and remained for 75 years until a movement against pushcarts decreased business. It reopened in the 1970s, this time with a movement against street vendors forcing it closed in the late '90s.
Starting April 24, the Hester Street Fair is resurrected once again, with local goods and food that match the spirit of the neighborhood. Located in lot near Seward Park, the market will get the block bustling again, with 60 vendors selling food, produce from Union Square's Greenmarket, artwork, clothes and crafts.
Vendors on board so far include Silkstone on the greenmarket side, Sigmund Pretzel Shop, Luke's Lobster, and Malbon Brothers Barbeque Sauce from the food front, and shoe line Devotte. Just don't expect any pushcarts.
