Adventures at the Night-time Market

My books were flying off the table! Not in the way you’d expect-not due to a sudden surge in popularity, but because of the unexpected 20 mph winds that sent them tumbling onto the gravel.

I’d decided to try the new local vendor evening market at the Old Tucson Studios. July 20 was the date that I could attend. The vendors could choose between two locations and two set-ups. The town square and main street would be filled. I chose a building overhang so that I wouldn’t have to haul and set up my tent. It’s difficult to erect the tent by myself (thank heavens for tall friends), and I was aware that this was monsoon season. I opted for the building overhang. 

Positioned in the OK Corral, a place steeped in history, I was ready to sell my limited supply of Sonoran Desert-themed books. The setting was perfect, and I was optimistic about the evening ahead.

Lessons Learned from the Night-time Market

My load-in time was 3 pm. I headed out to Old Tucson to set up directly from the Pima County Library System’s Mega-mania day down at the downtown campus of Pima Community College.  That was a fantastic event. I led a discussion about writing books about the moon.

I hoped my licorice would hold me since I had not found a fast-food place on my drive. My licorice was not sufficient.  Fortunately, one of the other vendors was selling hotdogs! We discussed the best toppings since I tend to spill my meals on my shirts.  Chili and melted cheese were out. I opted for sauerkraut and brown mustard.  Very tasty.  I was good to go.

From 4 until 6 pm, thunderstorm clouds built. Then the winds increased—not just occasional gusts of 20 mph, but steady winds. My books flew. I hoped the heavier volumes could remain standing, but eventually, even they took off. I’d have to lay the books on the table. I collected rocks—rocks that looked okay but had enough heft to hold the books down. My selection was limited, but I did find a few to help me. 

However, once I had addressed the wind issue, the rain started right when the gates were opened at 6 pm! The sky was alighted with flashes of lightning. A few kind people helped me move my tables further under the roof. The folks beside me were selling papier mâché pinatas, another product that doesn’t do well in the rain! They could move their wares into the historic school building behind them.

People came ready with umbrellas. You don’t often see a street filled with umbrellas in Tucson! I thought many people came up to my table to shop, but many of them were taking photos of the sunset behind me.

It was spectacular.  This photo doesn’t do it justice.  

A few people did buy my books, and others took photos, but I didn’t come close to selling out.

I hadn’t read the last email from the sponsors closely enough and didn’t realize the event had been extended until 10 pm from the original 9 pm. I unpacked and set up again. The rain came. They closed at 9:30 pm. I left in the pouring rain! Fortunately, I had wrapped my books in plastic bags, so they made it home dry, although the suitcase I’d hauled them in was soaked.

The final challenge of the event was driving over Gates Pass in the pouring rain at night! Desperation carried me through!

So, my review is that it is a great idea, has a great location, and has friendly staff, but don’t try to sell books during a monsoon storm!

I invite you to explore the captivating world of the Sonoran Desert through my themed books.