Organizers with First Saturday Arts Market are preparing to celebrate the market's 20-year anniversary March 2 with food, live music and more than 40 vendors.

The big picture

The outdoor market takes place at 540 W. 19th St., Houston, and has been a monthly staple along the Heights retail strip since 2004. The first market, launched by founder Mitch Cohen, featured roughly two dozen artists and attracted hundreds of vendors, according to a Feb. 20 news release.

Quote of note

"Looking back over 20 years is quite humbling," Cohen said in a statement. "The artists, many now good friends, remind me of what I've done by providing this opportunity. Their belief in my vision kept it alive, and I credit them, along with friends, neighbors and visitors, for creating and supporting this wonderful monthly event."


Zooming in

Live music at the anniversary event will come courtesy of the Houston-based rock and soul group Grifters & Shills as well as the singer/songwriter Wendy Elizabeth Jones. Food and drink vendors will include the Latin street food truck Delicias Maya and the Houston Cider Co.

Artists in attendance will be selling works ranging from pottery to photography, jewelry design, woodcraft, printmaking and painting.