San Mercado returns Saturday

From celebrating World Tai Chi and Qigong Day to Mariachi and Folklorico performances in honor of Cinco De Mayo, to a unique variety of vendor booths and art displays, the April installment of San Mercado at the Price Center promises a great, culturally-diverse time for all.  

Activities are slated to take place throughout the Price Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

For the third year in a row, the center’s two Tai Chi instructors, Brenda Bell and Margaret Falletta, will lead a group of participants in the celebration of World Tai Chi and Qigong Day in the garden starting at 10 a.m. The session is free, open to all and no previous experience is required. 

In the afternoon, three separate folklorico dance groups from Travis Elementary School are slated to perform from 1-1:30 p.m., followed by Mariachi Amor who will delight with traditional sounds from 2-3 p.m.

 “We’re extremely pleased to be welcoming mariachi and folklorico to San Mercado this month,” Price Center Executive Director Clay DeStefano said. “The market continues to grow and diversify each offering.” 

Mercado vendors slated to participate range from plants propagated from the Price Center’s own Garden, Bakes & Cakes by Rosie, Southern Market Boutique, flea marketers, artisans and makers of handmade goods and several independent retailers. The Price Center will also be offering a variety of drinks for $1 donations, including coffee and soft drinks.

San Mercado booths are available for both private and retail vendors. Vendors pay $20 for outdoor booths and $30 for indoor booths.

Vendor spaces are filled on a first come, first served basis and advanced registration is advised. Participants will need to bring their own tents, tables and necessary display equipment. Set up is from 8-9 a.m. on the day of the event.  A limited number of tables are available for rent for $10 each.

Admission to the Mercado is free and open to all. The monthly market is made possible in part through grant funds from the San Marcos Arts Commission. Proceeds from booth rentals benefit the Price Center, which is operated by the Greater San Marcos Area Seniors Association (GSMASA), a 501c3 nonprofit. 

For more information, call 512-392-2900, stop by the center at 222 W. San Antonio St. Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or visit the Price Center's website.