Summary
Overview of Eastern Market
Eastern Market, established in 1873, remains one of the last public markets in Washington, DC. This vibrant farmers market presents a variety of fresh produce, flowers, delicatessen items, baked goods, meats, fish, poultry, dairy products, and cheeses. Furthermore, Market Lunch is famous for its delicious crab cakes and blueberry pancakes. On weekends, the Farmers Market moves outdoors, enhancing the community’s experience. Notably, Arts & Crafts Fairs occur on Saturdays, while the Flea Market attracts many visitors every Sunday. Additionally, the Capitol Hill Community Foundation sponsors free concerts during May, June, September, and October on the corner patio at 7th St. and North Carolina Ave., SE. After a major renovation in 2009, the North Hall provides 4,000 square feet of event space for various gatherings.
Indoor Merchants at Eastern Market
- South Hall Market: Offers a selection of meats, poultry, seafood, produce, pasta, baked goods, flowers, and cheeses.
- Arts and Crafts: Features artworks by painters, sculptors, independent designers, woodworkers, jewelers, potters, and photographers.
- Open-air Food Market: Each Tuesday from 3-7 p.m., the Fresh Tuesdays Farmer’s Market presents fresh produce sourced from farms located in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Flea Market Details
The Flea Market at Eastern Market takes place on 7th Street SE, between C Street and Pennsylvania Avenue SE, every Sunday throughout the year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This outdoor market showcases an array of arts, crafts, antiques, collectibles, and unique imports from across the globe.
Address, Hours, and Essential Information
The Eastern Market is situated at 7th Street & North Carolina Avenue, SE, Washington, DC. For inquiries, you can contact (202) 544-0083. It is conveniently located on Capitol Hill, approximately seven blocks west of the Capitol and one block north of the Eastern Market Metro Station.
Parking options near the market are somewhat limited. However, free on-street parking is available on Sundays along Pennsylvania and North Carolina Avenues SE, as well as on other nearby streets. Additionally, garage parking can be found to the north side of the 600 block of Pennsylvania Ave. Note that 7th Street between C St and North Carolina is closed to vehicles over the weekend.
Operating hours are as follows:
- South Hall: Tuesday-Saturday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Flea Market: Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Arts & Crafts Market: Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Farmers’ Line: Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Historical Significance
A devastating fire destroyed the historic Eastern Market in 2007. However, city leaders, led by Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, immediately pledged support for the renovation and restoration of the market to benefit both merchants and the local community. The renovation was successful in restoring the roof and enhancing numerous features while preserving the building’s historical essence. Consequently, Eastern Market received the Outstanding Project Award from the Structural Engineering Association of Metropolitan Washington.
Websites
For more information, visit Eastern Market: easternmarket-dc.org and The Flea at Eastern Market: easternmarket.net.
