Made in Virginia Market Kicks Off Inaugural Weekend

Editor's Note: A video of the Made in Virginia Market and remarks is available in the online version of this article at www.cadetnewspaper.com Virginia Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger's inauguration weekend began Friday, Jan. 16, with a festive "Made in Virginia Market" in Richmond's Shockoe Bottom. More than 40 Virginia artisans and small businesses set up at the 17th Street Market, offering locally made products ranging from clothing and books to handmade jewelry and regional foods. Attendees browsed vendor booths laden with homegrown goods while sampling treats from food trucks and local restaurants, truly immersing themselves in Virginia's entrepreneurial talent. The open-air market had the feel of a block party despite winter temperatures. Live entertainment kept the crowd warm: a lineup of Virginia musicians took the stage, including Richmond funk-soul band Synhergi (stylized as "SynHERgi"), indie group Holy River, hip-hop artist TeezySoDope, and even Grammy-winning Virginia Beach native Pusha T, who delivered a surprise appearance. The high-energy band Synergy (another local favorite) had attendees dancing to upbeat tunes as daylight faded. Governor-elect Spanberget opened the event, highlighting her upcoming inauguration. "I am so excited," quipped Spanberger. " We had a vision of making sure that as we celebrate this inaugural weekend, we do it by celebrating the places and the people that make Virginia special…It is about the Virginia that we want for our kids and our grandkids. It's the communities we want to build." "I am committed as your next governor." Spanberger continued, "To addressing the challenges that keep people up at night. Working to lower the costs of living and housing, health care and energy, working to ensure we have the best schools in the nation for our kids, strengthening our communities, and doing right by our neighbors. This weekend, it is not about any one person or any one title. It is about what we want here in Virginia." Families and revelers filled their bags with Virginia-made goodies while enjoying craft beverages on-site. A special "pull-your-own tap" wall let guests sample local beers and ciders from Virginia breweries, adding to the community atmosphere. The five-hour marketplace drew thousands of visitors, all eager to celebrate the incoming governor in a uniquely Virginia way. By the end of the evening, the inaugural weekend was off to a lively start, with Spanberger herself mingling among constituents amid music and laughter. With dozens of artisans, small businesses, and food vendors from across the Commonwealth, the market highlighted the creativity and entrepreneurship that define Virginia. Please consider donating to help The Cadet remain independent at www.thecadetfoundation.org. We do not receive any funds from VMI or VMI AA, remaining true to our founding to be the independent voice of the Corps and alumni since 1871.