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STREET ENTERTAINMENT AT FANEUIL HALL MARKETPLACE

History

Street Performers, or buskers as they’re often called, first appeared at Faneuil Hall Marketplace more than thirty years ago to provide entertainment for construction workers renovating Quincy Market, South Market and North Market Buildings.

Today Faneuil Hall Marketplace is internationally renowned for its street entertainment - and performers provide near continuous enjoyment for the crowds of visitors to the Marketplace. Jugglers and clowns, puppeteers and dancers, musicians and a host of other skilled entertainers perform along the cobblestone promenades between the three market buildings. Some performers have been at the Marketplace for many years, while others are just starting their careers.


The Street Performers Program

The Street Performers are selected during the annual Street Performers Audition held the last weekend in April at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Each act performs for fifteen-minutes during which they are judged upon a variety of factors, including audience appreciation and involvement. Upon acceptance into the program, entertainers are entitled to schedule performances throughout the season. Street performances are held at six different locations around the Marketplace from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. from March through October (weather permitting). The Annual Street Performers Festival is held during Memorial Day Weekend to showcase the lineup for the year. With over fifty street performers on the books at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the variety and quality is enormous. The Marketplace welcomes performers from around the world and has played host to a diverse and talented array of entertainers from Macedonian puppeteers to South American and Japanese music groups to Russian and Hungarian classical musicians.


Street Entertainment Today

With over fifty street performers on the books at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the variety and quality is enormous. The Marketplace welcomes performers from around the world and has played host to a diverse and talented array of entertainers from Macedonian puppeteers to South American and Japanese music groups to Russian and Hungarian classical musicians.

In addition to its world famous buskers, Faneuil Hall Marketplace hosts a catalogue of activities and entertainment that ranges from annual events such as Harborfest and The Holiday Lighting Ceremony, to community events and fun fairs.
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“The City of Boston, the Cradle of Liberty, may Faneuil Hall ever stand a monument to teach the world that resistance to oppression is a duty, and will, under true republican institutions become a blessing.” - General Lafayette, 1825


FANEUIL HALL: THE ROOTS OF HISTORY

For 262 years, Faneuil Hall has been the heart of Boston, the setting where history was changed in colonial times and urban life transformed in modern day.

In 1742, Faneuil Hall was built by Boston’s wealthiest merchant, Peter Faneuil, as a gift to the city. The edifice was home to merchants, fishermen, and meat and produce sellers, and provided a platform for the country’s most famous orators. It is where colonists first protested the Sugar Act in 1764 and established the doctrine of “no taxation without representation.” Firebrand Samuel Adams rallied the citizens of Boston to the cause of independence from Great Britain in the hallowed Hall, and George Washington toasted the nation on its first birthday. Through the years, Faneuil Hall has played host to many impassioned speakers, from Oliver Wendall Holmes and Susan B. Anthony to Bill Clinton and Teddy Kennedy, always living up to its nickname, “The Cradle of Liberty.”

To better accommodate the merchants and shoppers, Faneuil Hall was expanded in 1826 to include Quincy Market, which was designed in the then-popular Greek Revival style and later dubbed for Boston Mayor Josiah Quincy. The market remained a vital business hub through the 1800’s; but by the mid-1900’s, the buildings had fallen into disrepair and many stood empty. The once-thriving marketplace was tagged for demolition until a committed group of Bostonians sought to preserve it in the early 1970’s. Through the vision of Jim Rouse, architect Benjamin Thompson and Mayor Kevin White, the dilapidated structures were revitalized, thoroughly changing the face of downtown Boston. The 1976 renovation was the first urban renewal project of its kind, one which spawned imitations in this country and abroad.

Today, what is known as Faneuil Hall Marketplace is still Boston’s central meeting place, offering visitors and residents alike an unparalleled urban marketplace. The unique—and burgeoning—array of shops, restaurants and outdoor entertainment have made it a premiere urban destination that attracts more than 20 million visitors annually.
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“…Faneuil Hall, the cradle of American liberty.”
- Daniel Webster, 1851


SHOPPING AT FANEUIL HALL MARKETPLACE

For over twenty-five years, Faneuil Hall Marketplace has offered Bostonians a place to shop for a variety of unique gifts and specialty items. The mix of independent merchants, artisans, pushcart vendors and well-known retailers, set in a festival atmosphere in historic downtown Boston, make the Marketplace a truly engaging, one-stop shopping experience.

The Marketplace thrives on maintaining a balanced mix of diverse shops, from the upscale to the unusual. Shopping options include:

  • Pushcarts --The Bull Market pushcarts, a concept created by Faneuil Hall Marketplace, became the model for pushcarts in malls across the country. The carts offer unique collectibles and clothing from our own New England neighbors as well as from craftsmen around the world. For example, wool sweaters from Ulyssian Imports are handmade in convents in Greece, transported from the convents by mules and shipped directly to the Marketplace. The Merry Trading Company sells the finest quality sheepskins, including: hats, gloves, mittens, slippers, and baby booties.

  • Specialty Retailers -- Specialty stores run the gamut from clothing to accessories to toys. Celtic Weavers, one of the first stores to open in Faneuil Hall Marketplace, features beautiful imports from Ireland including the Emerald Isle’s world famous hand-knit sweaters. The Bill Rodgers Running Center, appropriately located in the city of the world’s most famous marathon, features running gear and sneakers for novices and pros.

  • National Retailers –The Marketplace is home to an array of popular national retailers, such as Coach, Origins, Ann Taylor, Victoria’s Secret and Crate & Barrel. The eclectic mix of well-known stores is ideal for the holiday shopper or anyone needing to a new “special something” for themselves.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace offers Boston residents and visitors from abroad an unparalleled shopping experience right in the heart of Boston. The Marketplace is open weekdays until 9 p.m. and is accessible via subway or bus. Parking is available at 75 State Street garage for $9 weekdays after 5 p.m. and all day Saturday, Sunday and holidays with a merchant validation from any of the shops or restaurants. Visit www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com for details.


DID YOU KNOW...?

  • Faneuil Hall was founded in 1742 by Peter Faneuil as a central marketplace for crops and livestock in downtown Boston. At first there was opposition to the new marketplace from farmers who feared a competitive “buyer’s market” would cut profits.

  • The famed “Golden Grasshopper” weathervane was placed atop Faneuil Hall in 1742. From this perch, the grasshopper has witnessed over 260 years of American history in the making and the remarkable growth of the city.

  • In 1761, a fire at Faneuil Hall damaged the grasshopper weathervane. Thomas Drowne, a blacksmith and the son of the grasshopper’s creator, repaired the weathervane and inserted a “time capsule” in its stomach. The capsule, which is engraved “Food for the Grasshopper,” includes historical newspapers, coins, and messages from mayors that have been added as the grasshopper has been periodically refurbished.

  • As England attempted to impose taxes on the colonies, Faneuil Hall emerged as an important meeting place, hosting the Sons of Liberty as they resisted the taxes and debated the important issues of the day.

  • Faneuil Hall used to be waterfront property - in the early 1800’s Bostonians needed more land, so they filled in the harbor, pushing the waterfront back to where it is today.

  • Faneuil Hall was expanded to include Quincy Market in 1826, when Boston’s rapid growth necessitated a larger marketplace.

  • Durgin Park, the oldest existing restaurant in Faneuil Hall Marketplace, was opened in 1826.

  • Faneuil Hall celebrated its 150th birthday in 1976 with major renovations, creating Faneuil Hall Marketplace. The construction was considered

  • America’s most prominent “urban renewal” project, and the Marketplace’s subsequent success has spawned the creation of other similar urban marketplaces in New York, Baltimore, Miami, Washington, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Cardiff, Glasgow, and most recently in Portland, Maine.

  • During the 1976 construction, workers discovered Quincy Market’s “Great Dome,” which had been hidden by a false ceiling. The dome has been refurbished and is now visible.

  • Faneuil Hall Marketplace originally had five restaurants, three bars, seven delicatessens, and 16 food shops, as well as other shops selling a variety of merchandise.

  • Today, there are 49 shops, 18 restaurants and pubs, 35 Colonnade eateries and 44 pushcarts in Faneuil Hall Marketplace. It is easily accessible from Boston public transportation, and there are 10,724 parking garage spaces within a two-mile radius of the Marketplace.

  • Street performers began performing at Faneuil Hall in the early 1970’s to entertain the construction workers. They have never left, and today, Faneuil Hall is one of the premiere venues for street performing in the world.

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“To found a great empire for the sole purpose of raising up a people of customers may at first
sight appear a project fit only for a nation of shopkeepers.”
- Adam Smith, Wealth of Nations, (1775.)


FANEUIL HALL MARKETPLACE FACT SHEET

Sprawling on 6.5 acres, Faneuil Hall Marketplace attracts more than 20 million visitors annually.

SHOPS/SERVICES:
Local merchants and entrepreneurs have always been the Marketplace’s key attraction. Shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts and specialty items at Faneuil Hall Marketplace is always an adventure.

The Colonnade – 35 food stalls line the Quincy Marketplace Colonnade to comprise a melting pot of fresh homemade delicacies from all over the world.

Exotic coffees, fresh seafood, baked breads, gourmet desserts, hearty gyros and healthy salads are just a few of the food delights to be eaten at butcher block tables in the building’s central Upper and Lower Rotunda, on an outdoor bench or on a stroll through the halls. The second floor Rotunda also features old market signs and a photographic exhibit showing the history of the Marketplace.

The Shops – 49 owner-operated and nationally owned shops fill the Marketplace with a unique selection of jewelry, formal and casual clothing, accessories, and gift ware.

The Restaurants – 18

DESCRIPTION:
Located in the heart of downtown Boston, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is the nation’s premier urban marketplace. It combines the glories of the past and vitality of the present, with 49 shops, 44 pushcarts, 18 full service restaurants, 35 food stalls and Boston’s most popular comedy nightclub.

Across the street from Boston’s waterfront, the Marketplace is comprised of three restored 19th century buildings. A blend of Neoclassic and Greek Revival architecture, the complex is a beautiful representation of old Boston, tastefully enhanced by urban contemporary additions. Ethnic foods, unique gifts and street performers are just a few elements that make the cobblestone streets of Faneuil Hall Marketplace such a festive and special restaurants and pubs feature varied menus, and are open for lunch and dinner. During the warm weather, the outdoor cafes are a perfect spot to relax and have a meal or appetizer and drink.

The Bull Market – Faneuil Hall Marketplace was the country’s first to introduce pushcart shopping. The Bull Market’s fleet of wooden pushcarts, housed under the Quincy Market glass canopies, is constantly changing to reflect the seasons. Named after the bull atop Quincy Market’s weathervane, the ever-changing Bull Market pushcarts provide an opportunity for New England artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their creations.

ENTERTAINMENT:
A festival-like atmosphere distinguishes Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Renowned for its outdoor entertainment, the Marketplace is host to world class jugglers, clowns, mimes, acrobats, magicians, storytellers, caricature artists and musicians. Boston’s most popular comedy club can also be found here. The Marketplace welcomes numerous events throughout the year, including Harborfest, and
the Street Performer’s Festival. Visit www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com for details.

LOCATION:
In the heart of downtown Boston, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is adjacent to historic Faneuil Hall and is bordered by the financial district, the waterfront, the North End, Government Center and Haymarket. Many of the Freedom Trail’s most popular historic sites--Boston Common, Bunker Hill Monument, King’s Chapel and Paul Revere’s House--are just a few minutes away from the Marketplace by foot or public transportation.

GETTING HERE:
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a short walk from Boston’s subway system, commuter rail and buses (stops at the Old State House, Government Center and at the JFK Federal Building). The Marketplace is located at the intersection of Congress and North Streets. Logan Airport is two subway stops away. Validated parking is available at 75 State Street (entrance located on Broad St.) for $9 weekdays after 5 p.m. and all day Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

HOURS OF OPERATION:
The Quincy Market Colonnade is open 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. and the North and South Market retail stores are open 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, everything is open from noon – 6 p.m. Restaurants and pubs are open late every evening.

DEVELOPER:
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Inc., is an affiliate of General Growth Properties, Chicago, Illinois.


QUINCY MARKET COLONNADE: AN INTERNATIONAL GOURMET FEAST

Millions of people from every walk of life have enjoyed the diverse abundance of prepared foods at the Quincy Market Colonnade, one of the largest and most highly trafficked food halls in the world. 35 food stalls line the Colonnade, comprising a melting pot of fresh homemade delicacies from all over the world.

The array of ethnic cuisine includes Middle Eastern, Italian, Chinese, Mexican, Greek, South American and American. Walking down the long hall of food stalls offers an almost overwhelming experience of tempting sights and smells, leaving only the difficult question of which dishes to taste. A meal at the Colonnade could include lobsters and fresh seafood, New England soups and freshly baked breads, or pizza and Greek salad. And don’t forget the ice cream and bakeries for dessert! The Colonnade also features authentic New England specialties such as clam chowder, baked beans, and maple syrup candies. With so many choices, visitors will want to return time and again to sample the diverse and delectable fare. Quincy Market’s Colonnade truly offers something for every taste.

In 1826, Quincy Market was the premier place for Bostonians to shop for the best produce and meats local purveyors had to offer. The market was packed with loyal patrons and merchants, bartering over purchases and exchanging news of the day. This entrepreneurial spirit is still thriving in the efforts of the Colonnade vendors today.

In many ways Quincy Market continues that tradition today, featuring a wide array of the finest food in the area. Many of the food stalls are unique to Boston, such as Boston Chipyard, Kilvert & Forbes, and the Boston & Maine Fish Co. In keeping with the true entrepreneurial spirit of the original Quincy Market, Colombo and Finagle A Bagel opened their very first food shops here and have since become extremely popular in the region.

Right in the heart of Boston’s downtown, the Quincy Market Collonade offers an unparalleled selection of gourmet foods to satisfy the palates of the discerning Epicurean, the particular toddler – and everyone in between.

Pictured above: A La Carte serves up a variety of sumptuous selections, including rotisserie chicken and bacon wrapped scallops.

Note: Press passes are available by contacting the appropriate parties below:

Contact:
Charles J. Cohen
Public Relations.Events.Consultation
Phone 617-436-6159
Fax 617-436-6184

Geri Brown
Director Sales & Marketing Strategies
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
(617) 523-1300