In addition to the variety of vendors, Planet Retro Records was open for business with a plethora of records, stickers and patches.
Leanna Doolittle | The Crow’s Nest
By Eve Gottlieb
The usually quiet streets were lively as people filed in and out of the neighborhood record store.
On Feb. 20, Planet Retro Records opened its doors, and punk culture flooded the streets. About 20 vendors set up tents and joined the Punk Flea Market festivities from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 226 Dr. M.L.K. Jr St. N.
Some of the vendors included vegan hot dogs from Nah Dog Hot Dog Cart, comics from Monkeys Fighting Robots and a huge selection of T-shirts. Live music was performed throughout the day, and drinks were available for those over 21. The surrounding buildings were covered with a variety of murals from different artists as attendees filed in and out of the booths.
Mathew Ginzio, owner of St. Petersburg Popcorn Company, attended the Punk Rock Flea Market for the first time. Since his store does not have a physical location, these events are important for the gourmet popcorn-maker because it gives him a place to let customers try his products.
“Everybody is having a good time,” Ginzio said.“It’s just a really good vibe.”
Amanda K. Olexen — owner of the hair bow store, The Girl That Ate Suburbia — said she has attended the Punk Rock Flea Market every year since its inception and has no intention of stopping.
“I love it here because it is a fun crowd and there are a lot of dogs,” Olexen said. “I would come back just for the dogs.”
In addition to the variety of vendors, Planet Retro Records was open for business with a plethora of records, stickers and patches. Planet Retro Records lets patrons buy, sell and trade records. Records can be purchased for as cheap as $5, with stickers and patches going for $2 and $3, respectively.
Although the event drew to a close at around 5 p.m., some people straggled behind, soaking up what was left of the festivities.
