THE COLLECTIVE MARKET
Produced by Da Vinci Art Alliance (DVAA) in partnership with the South Street Headhouse District and neighborhood partners, The Collective Market creates low-cost, accessible opportunities for artists to sell their work, cultural organizations and community groups to connect with new audiences, and highlight local businesses in our neighborhood.
Each market will feature a mix of local vendors, art, food, live performances, hands-on workshops, and community resources, creating a lively neighborhood event that is as much about hanging out and connecting as it is about shopping.
Want to vend?
The Collective Market is designed especially for emerging artists, small-scale makers, and first-time vendors who may not have access to traditional markets.
We keep costs low by only charging vendors $25 per market to apply. If selected, no other fees are owed. DVAA handles permitting, event infrastructure, promotion, and other logistics so that vendors can focus on showing up, selling their work, and connecting with customers.
We're also looking for performers, workshop leaders, community organizations, volunteers, and neighborhood businesses interested in being part of The Collective Market. Community organizations providing free resources can participate at no cost.
The fee to apply is waived for non-profits, community organizations, and SSHD or DVAA members.
We particularly welcome applications from low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs, first-time vendors, and people who have historically faced barriers to participating in traditional marketplaces.
Why The Collective Market?
The Collective Market grew out of DVAA's work producing public events on South Street following the 2022 mass shooting. In 2024 and 2025, DVAA partnered with the South Street Headhouse District and the City of Philadelphia to produce a series of night markets and block parties that brought tens of thousands of people to the corridor and created opportunities for local artists, performers, businesses, and community organizations.
Now, we're building on that work with a recurring market that makes it easier for emerging entrepreneurs to participate consistently—not just once, but over time.
South Street is home to a huge range of creative businesses and independent entrepreneurs, but the corridor also currently has more than 20 vacant storefronts. The Collective Market uses public space to create more opportunities for people to test ideas, build audiences, generate income, and connect with potential customers and collaborators.
Our next market is October 23rd
on the 300 Block of South Street from 6 -10pm
If you’re interested in participating, please click the “click here to apply” button. You must pay the application fee for your application to be reviewed, outside of excluded parties listed above.
FAQs
Who can apply?
South Street Headhouse District Businesses
Artists and visual artists
Makers and craftspeople
Designers and creative businesses
Independent publishers and zine makers
Other emerging creative entrepreneurs
Can I apply if I’ve never done a market before?
You don't need to have participated in a market before. First-time vendors are encouraged to apply.
How much space do I get?
Every selected vendor receives a 12ft x 12ft space that you can fill however you’d like.
Do you provide tables and chairs?
No, please bring your own tables, chairs, tent, and any other supplies you may need
When will I hear back about the status of my application?
We will be contacting applicants by 8pm on Oct 13th with the status of their application.
Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
Samantha at samantha@davinciartalliance.org
About South Street Headhouse District: South Street Headhouse District (SSHD) is a business improvement district (BID) dedicated to creating a safe, clean, and well-managed business district that benefits the entire community. Established in 1993, SSHD enhances public safety, sanitation, and other services in collaboration with the City of Philadelphia. Our focus includes urban improvements, marketing initiatives, artistic enhancements, and other developments to elevate the visibility of our diverse business community. Located between Queen Village and Society Hill, SSHD is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Philadelphia and is home to over 400 businesses.
About Da Vinci Art Alliance: Founded in 1931, DVAA is a South Philly-based intergenerational artist collaborative that supports and connects people through exhibitions, equitable opportunities, and free creative programming. Art provides essential cross-cultural means for understanding the value diversity brings to our communities. DVAA provides tools for looking, listening, and imagining visions to create bridges over the barriers of difference between people.