AVONDALE — Mexican moms from across the city are selling their colorful handmade crafts at monthly markets in Logan Square and Avondale.
The one in Avondale, held at the long-neglected Woodard Plaza at Diversey, Kimball and Milwaukee avenues, is new this summer. Avondale’s first market of the season was held this past Sunday.
Longtime Logan Square resident and Logan Square Neighborhood Association staffer Araceli Carrillo is behind the market, called Mercaditos.
Carrillo, who makes jewelry and other crafts, launched a group, called Mujeres Artesanas con Carrillo, to showcase the work of crafty women she meets, many of them moms.
“I feel like I’m doing something for my friends — for moms like me who maybe need extra cash,” Carrillo said.
Carrillo started hosting markets about three years ago after realizing Logan Square, the neighborhood she’s called home since she was 16, didn’t have a regular craft fair dedicated to Mexican crafts and treats. The vendors are from all over the city.
“In Pilsen, I sold items and I saw how beautiful it was there. In Logan Square, we had nothing,” she said.
At Mercaditos, the moms sell handmade crafts — everything from jewelry and clothing to soap and candles — and treats.
Carrillo said the first Avondale market of the season was a success — and the moms were thrilled.
“For me, it’s like my payment. I feel so happy that people are happy,” she said.
“For me to have this Mercaditos, it’s like going back to our culture — it’s something that our neighborhood needs sometimes. It’s another option for [residents] to come outside, especially during the summer. It’s an addition in our communities.”
This summer neighbors can catch the market once a month in both Logan Square and Avondale.
The Logan Square market, held at the Paseo Prairie community garden at 2600 N. Kedzie Ave., runs noon-6 p.m. It’s scheduled for June 29-30, Aug. 24-25 and Sept. 15.
The Avondale market, the first of many regular events to be held at the revived Woodard Plaza, runs from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. It’s scheduled for July 14, Aug. 4, Sept. 8 and Oct. 6.
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