Attending local farmer’s markets and artisan markets is a fun weekend activity and a great way to support small businesses. Even if you currently do not have the funds to support the vendors financially, you can always take their business cards for later or try their free samples.
The Saturday Morning Market
The Saturday Morning is the closest outdoor market to the USFSP campus, so you don’t need a car – or even the Sun Runner bus – to attend! At this weekly market behind the Al Lang Stadium, you can find candles, crystals, drinks, flowers, jewelry, vegetables, and more! There are over 130 vendors, including Carol’s Jazzy Jewelry, Empanada World, Glenn Family Bakery, Mother Kombucha, and Sunshine Smoothies. More information about their vendors is available on their website: saturdaymorningmarket.com
The Corey Avenue Market
The Corey Avenue Market is a weekly market near Saint Pete Beach that lasts from 10 A.M. until 2 P.M. every Sunday from October until May. From June until September, the market begins and ends 1 hour earlier. There is free parking available, and it is only a quick trip away if you prefer to take the Sun Runner bus instead of a car. The market currently has over 70 vendors! There are always baked goods, fresh fruit, tea bags, handmade jewelry, and succulents available at this market.
Mezzo Market
The Mezzo Market is a monthly street market on Baum Avenue behind Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails. Their next market is on Saturday, February 25th from 11 A.M. until 4 P.M. Their vendor list varies by month, and they have recently announced on their Instagram account (@mezzomarket) that Petite Fleur Florals and Kismet Designs will be vending at their February market, so there will surely be some cool jewelry and pretty flowers available!
Indie Flea
The Indie Flea is a monthly artisan flea market held under the overpass in downtown Saint Petersburg. This market is usually on the first or second Sunday of each month from 12 P.M. until 4 P.M. In the past they have had some interesting vendors, including an oracle reader, a tattoo bus, and a cat adoption trailer. Their vendor list varies by month, so follow their Instagram account @indieflea for more vendor information.
Faire
The Faire is an open-air vintage market on central avenue in Saint Petersburg, Florida. This market is only held a few times per year on the 2nd Saturday of each month. A unique aspect of this market is that they have no vendor fee, so even the smallest of small businesses can afford to participate in their events! As a former jewelry vendor, I can confirm that this event is a lot of fun for both the shoppers and the small business owners. Although the set of vendors varies slightly by month, there is always unique vintage clothing available inside the Foundry and outside under the tent of Nothing New Collective. To find out which small businesses will be at their next market, follow their Instagram page @faire.stp.
New Moon Makers’ Market
The New Moon Makers’ Market is an artisan night market that was founded in 2021 by two USF alumni named Artie and Maissie. Over 30 vendors will be selling at their next event on February 24th from 5 P.M. until 10 P.M at 1820 16th Street North in Saint Petersburg, Florida. In the past, they have hosted vendors such as Cosmic Soul Gems and Floral Morals Vintage Apothecary. You can find out more about their event on Instagram @newmoonmakersmarket.