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Every Sunday, the corner of 77th Street and Columbus Avenue transforms into one of the most vibrant gathering spots on the Upper West Side. For 40 years now, Grand Bazaar NYC has been the backdrop for that transformation — drawing neighbors, tourists, vintage hunters, and curious browsers into a weekly ritual that feels as quintessentially New York as the neighborhood itself.
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“Grand Bazaar is quintessentially NYC,” Executive Director Dara Lehon told Fashion Week Daily in a recent profile marking the anniversary. “Our vendors and our visitors represent the melting pot that is New York. Think: authentic New Yorkers, different cultures, diverse offerings, best-in-class artisans, artists, dealers, and character making that very special New York vibe.”Anchored by its school setting in the heart of the neighborhood, the market has long served as a launching pad for emerging designers and makers while retaining the veteran sellers who’ve been part of the Bazaar for decades. That mix of old and new is intentional. Themes rotate with the seasons and holidays, and the Bazaar regularly partners with organizations like Made in NYC and hosts events like Denim Day, which spotlights sustainability alongside style.
Vintage fashion, in particular, has been a cornerstone of Grand Bazaar long before thrifting went mainstream. “The market has been home to vintage curators for years and has attracted a broad audience of people of all ages,” Lehon said. “We know that vintage is trending among young people, which we think is a nod to increased interest in sustainable fashion as a way to express yourself.” Shoppers looking for heritage Coach bags or vintage furs will find plenty to dig through on any given Sunday.
Among the current standout vendors, Lehon pointed to Pierre Laborde, who recently went viral and has been selling out weekly. “He’s an example of someone who has been working on his craft and with the Bazaar for years, fine-tuning his products, and is hitting his stride,” she said. Other notable names include pop artist Ozog Art, downtown-inspired fashion seller Electric Sunshine, and milliners like Sceaux Scully.
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What makes the Bazaar more than just a market is its mission. As a social enterprise, Grand Bazaar donates 100 percent of its proceeds to local public schools — a fact that’s easy to forget amid the treasure-hunting, but one that’s been central to its identity from the start.“Like the incredible city that is New York, we will also stay authentic, but pivot as needed,” Lehon said of the road ahead. “We will always be rooted here. We will continue to support our vendor community — and our community at large.”
Grand Bazaar NYC is open every Sunday, year-round. For more information, visit grandbazaarnyc.org.
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