Local Adventures: Randolph Street Market Festival

I recently got the chance to visit the Randolph Street Market Festival that happens once a month in Chicago.  Memorial Day Weekend is the big seasonal kickoff, since the weather turns nice and folks can enjoy being outdoors again!

To celebrate the new season, some bloggers were invited to “pin” their favorite items from local vendors who specialize in vintage and handmade items, to kickoff the season.  Of course, I got to leave my ribbons with each of my faves, and had a blast… but I also was super inspired by the folks I met who make a living creating or cultivating beautiful things…like the neon plastic dinosaurs I mentioned in another post.

I took lots of pictures to get inspired for things I’d like to put in my home, some of the things I actually did buy- like three neon plastic dinosaurs filled with succulents for my window…but man, there were so many great things to look at.  Plus, there was food and beverage to partake in.  It’s a great way to spend a weekend morning!

Rainbow colors and wine.  You have a solid business model, Randolph Street Market.

Of course, neon rainbow dinosaurs.  You know how much I love these damn things. I have three of them.  I would have bought the whole box and started a farm of plastic dinosaurs, but since I’m not loaded nor would it actually function as a working farm, I stopped at three.

Aren’t these two just the cutest? Their booth was filled with gorgeous vintage fashion pieces, I left a ribbon with them since not only were they adorable, but so were their wares.

Here’s one thing that I thought was totally awesome- a guy originally started taking vintage suitcases, and making them into iPhone compatible speakers.  Yes, they have USB ports in them, isn’t that awesome?  He did it as a hobby, but now it’s turning into a full time gig, and honestly- I love seeing craftspeople take off!

If you’re in Chicago, stop by the Randolph Street Market on one of the weekends each month they’re open, you’re sure to find something you love! It’s a great way to see some local flair and vintage flavor…and it’ll help you escape the typical tourist crowds that clog up State Street and Michigan Avenue, which much cooler shopping options!

Check out Randolph Street Market on Facebook for updates and vendor info!