Photos of Eastern Market two years ago, one year ago, and last month by erin m

Mark your calendars, Washington. Eastern Market’s official reopening has been set for June 26, as D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty announced yesterday. It’s been a little over two years since the historic building was ravaged by fire. A temporary structure was eventually built to house the market’s vendors while a $22 million renovation project began on the building itself.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony on will kick off the reopening on Friday, June 26, followed by a community celebration on Saturday, June 27. Vendors will start moving back in to the building on Sunday, June 14, but the outdoor farmers market will continue as usual over the weekend of June 20-21.

Along with restoring Eastern Market to its pre-fire state, a few upgrades were included in the renovations.

The market will have modern heating and air conditioning, new restrooms and sprinklers and access ramps to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The skylights and chimneys have been restored and new windows have been installed that protect against ultraviolet (UV) light. The North Hall will include a movable stage and gallery walls, a demountable dance floor and theatrical lighting making it attractive for community and rental use.

The reopening will also mark the conclusion of a new streetscape in front of the market. The Office of Property Management (OPM) and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) worked together to minimize disruptions and complete projects simultaneously. The new street includes upgrades of the roadway and roadbed and installation of new brick sidewalks, granite curbs, utilities and lighting.