Our Story

Local artist and Arlington resident, Alanna Rivera, founded the Cherrydale Holiday Market (then the Cherrydale Holiday Art Market) at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in November 2021. The market began as an outdoor market at the Cherrydale United Methodist Church in Arlington, VA. 

​

Alanna wanted to create more opportunities for BIPOC vendors to sell their art in the predominantly white neighborhoods of North Arlington. After selling in so many markets herself, Alanna also wanted to create a market that prioritized vendors. Vendors at the market are given free parking spaces close to their set-up and free refreshments. There are volunteers on call who are able to provide relief if vendors need breaks. Alanna wanted to create an market that was by vendors, for vendors.