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Chicago Antique Market Back for Another Season

By Olivia Leigh in Arts & Entertainment on May 23, 2007 5:15PM

Last summer, we somehow found ourselves perusing the goods at a flea market held on the grounds of the Square Barn in Wheeling. Walking in with the intention of not purchasing anything, we were surprised to walk out with a fabulous art deco cuff, a lucite bangle, a bag of colorful necklaces, a set of vintage medical jars and a cake stand, all for about $35.

2007_05_camlogo.jpgAfter that fateful trip, we ended up spending at least one weekend a month haggling our way to great deals. Thankfully for us, we won’t have to go far to enjoy our pursuit of the hunt, with the renowned Chicago Antique Market revving up for its summer season. Their annual Garden Party/Opening Weekend Extravaganza, will be taking place this Saturday, May 26, and Sunday, May 27, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Beaux Arts Plumbers Hall complex on the 1300 block of West Randolph.

Deemed one of the top three national urban antique markets by Travel & Leisure, you can expect to find higher-quality merchandise, such as pristine furniture, vintage jewelry, and unique art and glass pieces. $35 probably won’t get you as far here, where prices can tend to reflect the high popularity of the market, so be sure to bring enough cash (although two ATMs are available if you decide you must have that mid-century credenza).

2007_05_cam.jpgEven if antiques aren’t really your bag, check out hip, modern fashions at the indie designer FASHION MARKET and grab some fresh, organic produce from City Farm’s produce stand. Also be on the lookout for Chefs Michael Foley and Carl Duchaj, who will be dishing up all-organic versions of black bean burgers and Sloppy Joes as part of the Garden Party festivities.

If getting to the West Side is a bit of a haul for you, swallow your pride and hop on a free trolley at Water Tower Place. The shuttle will take you to the market, with trips back to Michigan Avenue every 30 minutes.

Admission to the Chicago Antique Market (1300 West Randolph) is $8 per day; children under 12 are free. Following the Garden Party weekend, the Chicago Antique Market will be open the last Saturday of each month through October. Get there via the Water Tower shuttle, the Green line to Ashland, or enjoy plentiful street parking. Dogs are welcome.