Junk-tiquen in the Burg Fall Vendor Show Celebrates Upcycled and Vintage Goods
By Hayley Harrell
|
For one exciting day in October, the Kittitas Valley Event Center springs to life with Junk-tiquen in the Burg’s fall showcase. Now in it’s third fall, Junk-tiquen invites crowds to peruse and purchase upcycled and repurposed decor, furniture and accessories.
It’s a flea market on steroids. “Junk-tiquen in the Burg is like a vintage, antique Black Friday,” event director Becky Sherley says with a laugh. And she’s right; there is typically an entrance line that suggests Black Fridayesque finds might be waiting inside! In two years, this popular event jumped from 900 attendees to over 2,000. Over 50 unique vendors wind up and down the Teanaway and Umptaneum Halls, carrying items ranging from handpainted signs and upcycled pieces to large-scale furniture and rare antiques. “Junk-tiquen is for everyone from 18 years old to 80+ years old. Many younger visitors come in search of repurposed items, while other shoppers are searching for true antiques. Each vendor’s booth is designed to be its own storefront, allowing viewers to really visualize how their items might look in their home.” While the event draws all kinds of attendees, Becky is quick to clarify a common misconception between crafty and upcycled. “Junk-tiquen in the Burg isn’t designed to be a craft fair,” Becky states. “This event is truly showcasing all things repurposed and upcycled. Crowds come to find one-of-a-kind items to add to their homes and lives, things you can’t find in a store or online.” From hobbyist to event planner Mortgage lender by day, repurposing junkie by night; Becky’s passion for repurposing vintage and “found” objects is enthralling. She reminisces about times spent attending shows with her mother and sister. “I was always browsing, searching for something unique and unexpected. For example, I would find a bicycle wheel, paint it, add hooks and embellishments, and create a jewelry display.” Not only does Becky have a passion for upcycling items, but her organizational and event planning skills are put to work with the execution of Junk-tiquen in the Burg. From searching for new vendors to coordinating day-of volunteers and vendors, Becky and her team are fully dedicated to creating a fun and memorable experience for attendees. The event is firmly rooted in Ellensburg, and for good reason. Becky is very passionate about bringing new faces to the valley. “This is a beautiful valley, with so much history and a strong foundation in the agriculture industry,” she shared. “This event gives me a chance to give little pieces of history a new life, much in the way that Ellensburg blends its history with new attractions and events. The charming and historic town of Ellensburg is the perfect backdrop for a show like Junk-tiquen in the Burg.” Junk-tiquen crowds visit from across the Pacific Northwest Vendors roll into town from all corners of the Pacific Northwest, from the southernmost tip of Oregon to small towns in Idaho. Many vendors are Washington natives, giving Junk-tiquers a true feeling of “buying local”. Ellensburg’s centralized location in Washington encourages visitors to travel from all corners of the state. Every year, hundreds of new Junk-tiquers travel to Ellensburg, and many people plan girls’ weekends and family vacations around the event. Becky often hears that families and friends have made a weekend out of their Junk-tiquen experience, allowing time to explore downtown Ellensburg and the surrounding recreation opportunities. What to expect at the October 28th, 2017 fall show On October 28th, shoppers will gather to attend the third annual Junk-tiquen in the Burg fall show. From 9:00am to 4:00pm, they can peruse rows of unique vendors and wares at the Kittitas County Fairgrounds and Event Center. The Umptanum and Teanaway Halls will be where the action is, with various attractions and vendors scattered between. And, of course, don’t forget to take a “selfie” with Roxanne, the famous blue Chevrolet truck! Visitors looking for the ultimate Ellensburg vacation to accompany their Junk-tiquen adventures can visit www.myellensburg.com for lodging, dining and activity recommendations. Make Ellensburg yours this October at Junk-tiquen in the Burg! #myellensburg |
|
