WASHINGTON, DC (April 30, 2008)--Though this evening marks the one year anniversary of the fire that gutted the Eastern Market South Hall, business and activities in the neighborhood continue unabated. Mark your calendars for these events:

Part of a series of community meetings sponsored by Councilmember Tommy Wells the event will strive "to develop a shared vision for the future of the Hine Jr. High site," according to a Wells press release.


Both the temporary East Hall, which houses all the South Hall merchants displaced by the fire until restoration is completed on Eastern Market, and The Flea Market at Eastern Market presently operate on the site.

Festivities at the popular event begin at 11 a.m. and continue until 6 p.m. Vendors offering a variety of ethnic foods; children's games, health screenings, and three stages of musical entertainment are featured highlights.


About seven city blocks around the market will be closed for the event, which will also include live radio coverage, arts & craft workshops, rides, games, and a children's parade. Add in a few dozen vendors to175 exhibitors from our weekly flea market and certainly the free admission is the best bargain in the city!

The event "has some incredible surprises in store for you," according to society member Aileen Moffatt. "We are taking you on an adventure outside the historic district--beyond the boundaries- -to up-and-coming Capitol Hill neighborhoods with great flair and panache that are placing them among the most sought after areas in the city."


A "pub crawl" is also promised among more traditional tour stops such as the 110-year old Pierce School, at 1375 Maryland Avenue, NE, recently converted to loft-style apartments; and 152 Tennessee Avenue, NE, just north of Lincoln Park, a house built in 1909.

Started last July "to remind everyone that Eastern Market is alive and open after the fire," the series presents blues, bluegrass, swing, jazz, contemporary and international musicians.


"The music was an instant hit, both with our exhibitors and customers," said Tom Rall, manager of The Flea Market at Eastern Market. "The series was just one of many philanthropic responses to help the market community and we greatly appreciate that the foundation is bringing it back for another year."