In a declining economy, and a tumultuous social and political climate, there’s a lot of discourse on what people need to build healthy communities. The idea of a Third Place was introduced by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, and is defined as “a space for informal, free social interaction, essential to democracy.” He argued that people must be able to go out and be social, without burning a hole through their pockets. Oldenberg says that it’s in these spaces between home and work, where human connection is fostered.
Recently, there’s been a wave of online discourse around third places and the need for more of them. But what about the third places that already exist?
Union Market
Union Market is the historic food hall located in the Union Market District of Ward 5. It’s a cultural landmark in D.C. Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat, throwing together a new outfit, or you just want to be outside — Union Market has it all!
Union Terminal Market was built in 1931 after the demolition of Centre Market, a former commercial hub. It started as a farmers market, selling food and other essentials to a rising D.C. population. By the mid 20th century, it became a staple in the D.C. community.
Union Market has since dropped the terminal from its name and undergone multiple policy updates and renovations. Through all the change, it continues to be a popular D.C. hub for socialization and commerce. Food and clothing vendors stay open year-round, and their website is full of events and activities, from art shows to vendor pop-ups, to movie nights. Part of the joy of Union Market is that the average goer can have a good experience without spending a dime.
Cost-Effective Fun
This is why Union Market, and environments like it, are so necessary. In an economy trending towards recession, it’s important to keep building community and having fun, even if it’s done in more cost-effective ways.
Here’s a list of free or inexpensive activities happening in Union Market and the surrounding area this summer:
- June 12-22 – World Soccer Watch Party @ Hi-Lawn | Check Union Market and Hi-Lawn Calendar for Schedule | Free
- Friday, June 19 – Soulversations Juneteenth Block Party @ Union Market Plaza | 12-8p | Free
- Friday, July 10 – The Drive-in Showing Iron Man @ Union Market on Neal Place | 7-11p | Free
- Sunday, July 19 – Muze Mrkt @ Union Market in Dock 5 | 12-5p | Price Varies
- Friday, August 14 – The Drive-in Showing F1 the Movie @ Union Market on Neal Place | 7-11p | Free
- Friday, September 4 – The Drive-in Showing Mean Girls @ Union Market on Neal Place | 7-11p | Free
- Sunday (recurring) – Fresh Farm Farmers Market @ Union Market on 5th Street | 10a-2p | Price Varies
- Monday (recurring) – Trivia Monday @ Hi-Lawn | 7-9p| Free
- Wednesday (recurring) – Bingo Wednesday @ Hi-Lawn |7-9p | Free
- Movies on the Plaza | Check Hi-Lawn Calendar for Schedule and Dates | @ Hi Lawn | Free
Fill these hot summer days with some joy in and around the community. Visit the Union Market, and don’t let these unprecedented times stop you!
Featured image/photo courtesy of Union Market/Facebook.
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