Article Text
As other seasonal markets close for the year, D.C.’s Winter Clubhouse is extending the shopping season with more than 150 booths and an indoor escape from the January cold.
The market opened Jan. 24 to showcase small businesses during a typically slower retail period. Vendors offered winter treats, vintage clothing, handcrafted goods, jewelry and services including tattoos and permanent jewelry.
A welcoming atmosphere helped attract a strong turnout of shoppers and sellers during opening weekend.
“The people [and] the vendors here are very sweet [and] very nice, especially [the organizers],” said Milia Issa, who was helping operate the Larry Issa Design booth.
Catherine Reed, owner of Hacienda Modern Vintage, praised the mix of participating businesses.
“The event has a lot of fresh young vendors, a lot of hip, cool pieces that they’re bringing to the table and such a variety,” Reed said. “It’s not just vintage clothing and housewares: there’s jewelry, food, services and more.”
The indoor location set the Winter Clubhouse apart from many other seasonal markets and gave visitors shelter from the weather.
“We particularly enjoy indoor [markets] in winter, [which] is something [you] don’t see often,” Reed said.
The facility itself had shortcomings, including exposed pipes, concrete floors and renovations that appeared unfinished. Those features made the setting feel less polished, but did not overshadow the overall experience.
Unlike some other D.C. markets, including the Dupont Circle holiday market, admission to the Winter Clubhouse required a ticket. Tickets were available online for $5.
Once inside, shoppers could find many products priced between $10 and $25, although costs varied by vendor. The relatively affordable selection allowed visitors to browse a wide range of booths while supporting small businesses during a quiet part of the shopping calendar.