Talking Shop

Rare finds and real deals

Comments (0) By Julie Dunn Thursday, Apr 10 2003

To market, to market, to buy a fat pig...but who really needs large, smelly livestock living in Denver? What we all do need -- or maybe just love to buy -- is more kitschy knickknacks, and this Saturday's downtown Ballpark Market is bound to have loads of them.

Robert Ullman

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Kicking off its sixth-annual season this Saturday, April 12, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Larimer Street between 21st and 22nd streets, the market will be bustling with thousands of Denverites searching for bargains on everything from antique armoires to funky jewelry. Shoppers can grab a tasty treat from the Pasquini's booth and a cup of piping hot coffee as they wander through the maze of more than a hundred vendors -- some from as far away as New Mexico and Wyoming -- selling 1950s iced-tea glasses, natural soaps, vintage clothing, fresh-cut Gerber daisies and much more. "It's got a really neat character," says Tim Sabus, who organizes the market with his sister, Amy. "It's a very relaxed atmosphere that allows for conversation; it's a great way to meet people."

And don't forget the age-old rule: The early bird catches the kitsch. True collectors and bargain-hunters arrive before the crack of a baseball bat to scout out the eclectic merchandise. "Some of our regular customers will be there before 7 a.m. to browse" says Amy Sabus. "You just never know what you're going to find, which is definitely part of the allure."

If you happen to miss this weekend's open-air extravaganza, the Ballpark Market will be held, rain or shine, now through October on the second Saturday of each month. For further information, visit www.ballparkmarket.com.

"Come and check out the scene," says Sabus. "If you find something you love, that's great, but if not, I guarantee that you'll have a great time, regardless."