From Small Farmers’ Market to Vibrant Community Celebration: The Transformation of Main Street Market in Sulphur Springs

In 2009 the Market on Main Street was known for bringing together several vendors to sell fresh homegrown fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods. Before the remodel of downtown, the event held every Saturday morning was small and did not bring in a big crowd.

Since 2012, with the redesign to what is now known as Celebration Plaza, what was once referred to as a traditional farmers’ market is now seen as a celebration of local businesses and vendors. Named the Celebration Market, the market includes local vendors accompanied by live music and entertainment and encourages people to try the restaurants and visit the stores on the square. Now starting at 6 p.m., the market does not draw in as many farmers since prime picking time is in the morning.

Sarah Dicus the Community Development Specialist said “We encourage entrepreneurship and creativity within the market. People who craft, face-paint, cook, paint, widdle, make soap, jelly, jewelry, decor, spices, paintings, etc. have a place to go.” With both seasonal and drop-in vendors there are 40 stands each weekend. The Celebration Market is also host to traditional events like the 4th of July, The Corvette Show, and The Christmas Parade and wants to “encourage more events, more gatherings, to stimulate downtown.” Sarah Dicus said.

The Celebration Market begins in May and will happen every Saturday through September 16, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The market is a great opportunity for vendors to gather and share their crafts and talents. It also provides entertainment for the community and an opportunity to give back to local providers while enjoying the festivities at the Celebration Market at Celebration Plaza in downtown Sulphur Springs.

Contributed by Addison Caddell as a part of her Summer in The Springs series for Front Porch News sponsored by Alliance Bank. Photos by Christian Dicus