In honor of its 100th successful year, the Maxwell Street Market in Chicago, IL, is having a celebration on Sunday, October 21, that will include DJ Perfect Sound, local blues man Fernando Jones and his trio, a performance by Linda’s Dance Studio, a local youth troupe that performs Mexican dances, and a performance by local band Low-reen’s Maxwell Street Blues Jam. At noon, in the middle of all the performances, a birthday celebration will take the cake with a sugary masterpiece provided by Eli’s Cheesecake Company. In addition, the Maxwell Street Foundation will have a display of photographs and artifacts that cover the market’s 100-year history. Festivities begin at 9 a.m. and carry on until 3 p.m. at South Desplaines and Roosevelt Streets. Admission to the event is free.
“The market was incorporated in 1912, but before that, it was a Jewish settlement area and there were many family owned businesses in the area,” explains Ndidika Vernon, market manager. “On Sundays, these families would come outside to set up shop on the street, and it became an area where immigrants gathered to sell their goods. It has since grown to be a highlight of the community visited by multiple generations to this day.”
Remembering the Old, Welcoming the Future
In the coming year, Vernon says she wants to expand the market. “We’re always looking to increase our programming, because having so many functions has definitely helped to draw more people out to the Maxwell Street Market. The people who come as patrons and as vendors all enjoy it.” More information can be obtained by calling 312-745-4676.