A celebration will be held on June 7, 8 and 9, 2019 to mark the 10 year anniversary of the re-opening of Eastern Market following the 2007 fire. On Sunday, June 9, there will be guided walking tours of the Market and other activities between 10 am and 4 pm, in addition to the weekend vendors and indoor merchants. The tours will provide comprehensive information about the history, community significance and architecture of the entire building and outdoor Farmers Line. 

Come help celebrate the 10th anniversary of the reopening of Eastern Market following the devastating fire of 2007. Sponsored by Eastern Market and the DC Department of Government Services (DGS), this three day community celebration, “Rediscover Eastern Market,” will take place on June 7, 8, and 9, 2019. The event will feature fresh food, music and special tours. Each tour will accommodate 12 people and take about 45 minutes.

Saturday highlights will include a Food Tour (led by:  Andrew Lightman at 10 am, 11 am and noon) and musical performances, Jazz/Blues/Brass at 10 am, 12:30 pm and 3 pm.

Sunday highlights will include guided walking tours of the historic Eastern Market, Jazz performances at 10 am, 12:30 pm and 3 pm; anniversary cake from Fine Sweet Shop; popcorn machine; and fun and games in the North Hall: Popcorn Machine,  Giant Games (Jenga, Connect 4, Coin Toss), Mini Golf.

For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rediscover-eastern-market-a-celebration-marking-10-years-after-restoration-tickets-61257714473

A Bit of History:

Most long-time residents of Capitol Hill will recall the morning of April 30, 2007. The Hill woke up to the sound of fire alarms and the smell of smoke. Our beloved Eastern Market had suffered a catastrophic fire. Some residents were concerned that the 19th century structure was damaged beyond repair. However, before the end of the day, Mayor Adrian Fenty promised that the historic building would be repaired.

A public-private partnership was formed by the District, Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee (EMCAC) and the Capitol Hill Foundation to restore the fresh food public market. Within months a temporary structure known as the East Hall was constructed to house South Hall merchants. After two years of extensive and innovate renovations, the building reopened on June 26, 2009.