Mac Kid had to read five books over the summer. Mac Mom absolutely loved Mr. Rogers and when she saw the “Who Was Mr. Rogers” book, she had to buy it. It was the last of the required five for the summer and the one that the kid used for her summer writing. One thing that was important to Mr. Rogers was community and supporting our neighbors. The Village Café’s NEIGHBORS DC really shows the spirt of Mr. Rogers.
This is a weekly pop-up market that is all about supporting the entrepreneurs in our own neighborhood. They have a network of over 50 local vendors which change each week on their Saturday and Sunday market. The prioritize Black-owned businesses but welcome all POC businesses, independent brands, and women-owned brands.
When we went to the Village Café at 1272 5th Street NE it was a treat for the eyes. There were so many beautiful things available for purchase. The first table was Fa Angye3. She had beautiful fans, bracelets, beaded items, and body scrubbies all made in Ghana. Her slogan is “Choose Joy”. It really was a joy to see the absolutely beautiful products with the bright colors. We then went on to see crystals, candles, earrings, and other jewelry which the kid wanted to buy every single thing.
Our most tasty find was at Sweets by Shy. If you stop by when she is there, you are in for an amazing treat. We opted for the banana pudding. It came in a pint mason jar. There was a lot of pudding in there! Dad and kid really like banana. Mom doesn’t really like it. However, this was amazing. This wasn’t the instant vanilla pudding with some vanilla wafers and browned bananas in it that you get at a potluck. This was a luxurious desert. Dad can tell you about it. Kid and mom just couldn’t put it down and ate the whole thing while watching TV. It was a pure joy moment and worth every single calorie.
This gem is open only on Saturday and Sunday from 10-4. It is worth the stop and a great way to buy local.
