From the foot of 12th Street where it intersects with the River Walk and Trolley line up 12th Street four blocks, every Sunday from Mother's Day Weekend until mid October a market takes over the street. The market provides 140 spaces about 10 by 10 feet. In 2003, over 200 vendors operated. The thousands of customers served are both locals and folks who had come to town by car, train, river boat, and ocean cruise ship. Estimated sales were more than $600,000.

The market is located on the main north-south street in a national historic district. Its center is marked by the historic Liberty Theater. With the street closed to vehicles, pedestrians take over the four block area of 12th Street. They cross the east-west couplet of Highway 30, which brings folks from other coastal locations and the urban area. Many folks drive past the market and immediately begin looking for a parking space. Visitors who have arrived by train, boat, or cruise ship use the 1913 Heritage Trolley (Old 300), or walk along the River Walk to arrive at the market. Locals plan there Sunday mornings or afternoons to shop for fresh produce, enjoy the food court, or by arts and crafts from vendors. The vendorsÍ booths butt up against the street curb so that the wide sidewalks provide access to existing businesses many of whom open on Sundays for the market. This also provides a quick way to by-pass the crowded street and get between blocks if you want to get to a specific vendor. Visitors staying at the historic Hotel Elliot exit their front door and find themselves in the middle of the market. They can buy art from local artists, canned crab, crafts, or a plant for their yard at home.

The street provides a visible and open location for the market. It is cleaned before and after the market. The Food Court is in a bank parking lot. It provides space for food booths and seating. The cover for the bankÍs drive up provides a covered space for entertainers. Local bands play, along with poetry readings and other entertainment at the food court.

A great mix of people - and dogs - enjoy the market. Folks of all ages and economic status regularly attend the market.

Everyone has a great time. Folks leaving church mix with counter-culture types enjoying the food and music. A great place to buy produce for the week, or arts and crafts.