On a normal Friday night, there’s nothing better to do than visit the local vendors and artisans at The Market at 301. Part market, part eatery and always a good time, the event allows Lexingtonians to celebrate and support the talents of our fellow statesmen (and women). 

Housed in Manchester Music Hall, the event is set up like a flea market, if a flea market had a full bar, local food trucks and high quality, high fashion Kentucky-centric crafts. 

Some of my favorites on the list for tonight were Blue Originals, a craft Tee store, Amaranthus Paper & Flora, a paper flower company, and Bourbon Ware, which creates (as its name would suggest) drinking ware for the bourbon lover in us all. 

To be accepted into The Market at 301, vendors must be local boutiques, or artisans. This helps drive the Kentucky theme of the event. Many of the vendors are from the community or the state, and their work shows. 

The event has a homey feel, and is family friendly. One of my favorite parts is that it appeals to both college kids and their parents. Basically if you love Kentucky, you’ll love Market at 301. 

Local food trucks are also present, so you can shop, eat and drink to your hearts content. Unfortunately due to the snow, tonight’s market was cancelled. BUT never fear, they’ll return on February 12, just in time for Valentines Day.

While you wait for the next Market at 301, or maybe just warmer weather, curl up with some Jesse Stuart, pour some bourbon cream in your hot coco and do what Market 301 does best, celebrate Kentucky and all it’s beauty. 

Lexington Souers is the features editor of the Kentucky Kernel.

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