AUSTIN, Texas — The first locally produced Night Market is coming to Austin later this month.
Night markets are exactly what they sound like – typically open-air markets that happen at night and encourage strolling, shopping and eating. The markets are popular in East Asia, Southeast Asia and Chinatown neighborhoods worldwide.
Austin's Night Market will be hosted by the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce and The Lunar Foundation at Distribution Hall on Saturday, May 25, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
While that end time might sound late, it's actually typical for these types of events, according to Austin food blogger Jane Ko of A Taste of Koko.
"I know it’s pretty late, but that is traditional for night markets," Ko told KVUE's Jenni Lee. "I actually grew up in Taiwan, and night markets are very common there. There’s actually over 700 night markets in Taiwan, and it’s so much fun."
The Austin event will feature dozens of vendors, including local food and tastemakers offering Asian-influenced grub and arts and craft vendors showing off their wares. There will also be live painting by Yellow Yellow and Everyday Research, plus live music and dance performances by a whole lineup of artists.
The market, which was initially a three-day event and was later consolidated to one night only, benefits the Austin Asian Community Health Initiative.
"This is such a great way for the community to come out and experience, you know, our Asian culture and experience through the food, the music, the performances, workshops," Ko said. "It’s just such a special event”
Tickets are available online for $30 plus fees. Kids 12 years old and younger get in free, and Ko said dogs are also welcome.
Not sure where to park? Ko said there's an easy solution.
"Asian Night Market has partnered with CapMetro to reveal the Plaza Saltillo Station. So if you actually hop on the CapMetro line, it takes you right to the steps of Asian Night Market," Ko said. "So you actually don't even have to worry about parking."
CapMetro is also offering Night Market attendees free digital rail passes. There are 350 free passes available on a first come, first served basis. Sign up closes on Wednesday, May 22.