Chocolate Fest Oct 6-8
Weigand, Cara
Issue date: 10/4/05 Section: Arts & Society
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The Lexington Market has been a part of Baltimore since 1782 and celebrates its 220th anniversary this year. It is the world's largest continuously running market. Bustling for more than six generations, it began as a type of farmer's market, and was then transformed into a site for immigrants and entrepreneurs to establish themselves in the 1950s. All types of ethnicities were represented, making the site a huge melting pot of aroma, cuisine, language and culture. Today the market is very much the same. The only differences you will find are its newly renovated store front and its size: two massive, neighboring warehouses holding 140 merchant stalls.
A trip to Lexington Market is an experience comparable to few others. The market is located in a unique, diverse and cultural neighborhood of Baltimore and caters to a wide variety of customers. At lunch time it is common to see prominent business people on break, kids on a field trip, families getting dinner before a sporting event or just a group of low-key Baltimoreans trying to relax. Lexington Market is a place where all walks of life are pulled together by a universal desire for a great time and good food and entertainment.
The market has something for even the most picky eaters. Shoppers can find everything from fish to produce to baked goods. In addition to grocery shopping, consumers can get all the same things prepared to enjoy on site. The second floor of the East Side building is full of bistro tables and chairs and overlooks the first floor center stage where local bands play all types of music. Also on the second floor, guests can look out the newly-renovated windows and enjoy the encompassing view of Baltimore city.