Randolph Street Market celebrates 20 Years of vintage delights and community spirit

Randolph Street Market, one of the country's most beloved vintage markets, recently marked its 20th anniversary over the weekend with a grand celebration of antiques, vintage, and modern goods. Founder Sally Schwartz led the festivities, joined by nearly 200 enthusiastic dealers who made the event truly unforgettable.

The anniversary event wasn't just a market; it was a lively block party, a feast for the senses, that overflowed with continuous live entertainment and fun food. From jazz and rockabilly to salsa, country western, and 80's disco, the vibrant sounds of music echoed both inside and outside Plumber's Hall at 1371 W. Randolph St. The lineup of entertainers featured names like Woodstreet Bloodhounds, JP & Jenny James Rockabilly, Maxwell Street Blues Band, Brandon Good Country Western Band, and Poems-While-You-Wait, among many others.

The culinary offerings were equally impressive, with diverse and delectable treats from a variety of vendors. For the first time, the Original Rainbow Cone made an appearance, drawing long lines of market-goers eager to taste flavors like Palmer House, Wild Berry, and Pistachio. Dinky Delights impressed with their hot donuts served with a choice of delectable toppings. Maggie’s Sweets offered mouth-watering gourmet cookies; My Sweet Nouveau served up hand-dipped chocolate-covered caramels and pretzels; Pies of London were selling savory chicken and leek pies while The Fat Shallot was a hit with their grilled cheese sandwiches and truffled BLTs.

Other standout food vendors were Olive Oil Girl, offering a selection of olive oils and rare honeys; Fisch Foods with their delectable dill and garlic pickles; Chef Heatley's Hot Sauce featuring artisan hot sauces made from their farm-grown hot peppers; and Heray Spice showcasing spices from Afghanistan.

Sally Schwartz, the visionary behind Randolph Street Market, shared her incredible journey that began with her company "Paint Me a Party" at the age of 25. In 2000, the company evolved into "Image Pilots Global Event Navigators," earning recognition as one of the top 50 global event companies by Special Events Magazine. Sally expressed her love for the market, stating that it combined her passions for history, art, fashion, shopping, and socializing with interesting people. Her dedication to avoiding the mundane and seeking excitement has been the driving force behind the market's success.

The 20th-anniversary market proudly featured an array of talented vendors including Lauren of Coco Boho Eclectic Finds and Laura from Off the Beaten Path who showcased their mid-century modern, Bohemian, and eclectic treasures. Ken from 29 Palms in Rockford, Illinois, brought a stunning collection of vintage furniture finds, while Greg Johnson from St. Charles, Illinois, presented high-quality silver, silver plate, and collectibles, having been part of the market almost since its inception. Chicago State Advisors offered a diverse range of items from pottery to Limoges to crystal to barware. There was clearly something there for everyone!

As a devoted attendee of Randolph Street Market from its early days, witnessing its growth and success has been a pleasure for many. Sally's unwavering determination to make each market even better than the last has been remarkable. Even during the challenges posed by Covid, she demonstrated resourcefulness by moving the market to Three Oaks, Michigan, where her loyal fans and friends followed.

Schwartz's unique ability to connect with vendors, clients, and supporters has propelled Randolph Street Market to national acclaim. Architectural Digest named RSM as one of the "Best Flea Markets for Summer Shopping," Better Homes & Gardens recognized it as one of the "Nine Flea Markets You Must Visit Before You Die," and USA Today labeled it one of the "10 Best Flea Markets For Finding Vintage Treasures." Additionally, TimeOut Chicago bestowed the title of "The Best Flea Market in Chicago" upon this celebrated event.

Randolph Street Market’s upcoming line-up will feature markets on September 23/24 and November 18/19. Mark your calendars and visit randolphstreetmarket.com for more information.

On behalf of the community of vintage enthusiasts, we extend our warmest congratulations to Sally Schwartz, her diligent team, and all the vendors who have made the Randolph Street Market such a success. Here's to 20 years of treasured memories and a future filled with even more vintage delights!

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