The former Pathmark building in Montclair is buzzing with life as 200 vendors took over its 100,000-square-foot space. Shoppers can now explore this festive marketplace every weekend, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., through Jan. 19, 2024.

After David Placek saw an opportunity in the empty building, which had been vacant since 2015, he teamed up with Montclair Flea. Now the space is packed with vendors selling everything from handmade clothing to jewelry, while local farmers sell fresh produce and bakers dish out homemade treats.

Adding to the holiday cheer, Boy Scouts are selling Christmas trees, wreaths, and poinsettias. Volunteers from the Montclair Aging Collective help shoppers by wrapping gifts.

 Local vendor Charles Rosen runs the Ironbound Market stall, selling goods from nearby farms, including fresh vegetables, meats, and ready-to-eat meals.

Outside, five food trucks serve tasty street food, with three more on the way. Plans are in place to add a wine shop and two bars, serving seasonal cocktails and local beers.

The property owner, BDP Holdings, has plans to build 300 apartments with retail space below. With the delay in those plans, the holiday market is using the space well in the meantime. 

Jason Gleason, vice president of community development at BDP Holdings, and former executive director of the Montclair Center Business Improvement District said, “We want to do something with the property between now and when we are allowed to redevelop.”

Coming this spring: the Rec Room, a new space for people to gather and work. This mix of shopping and workspace could stick around for up to five years while construction plans get sorted out.