The sounds of families, children, and groups of friends filled the air with laughter, conversation, and music Tuesday night at the Noe Valley August Night Market in San Francisco.
The smell of delicious food surrounded the booths as neighbors and nearby residents visited vendors coming from all over the Bay Area.
Besides food, vendors offered products ranging from balloon animals to clothing. The event is put on by the Noe Valley Merchants and Professionals Association.
For many locals, the night market is filling a niche that builds connection.
“There was a real loss that the community felt from not having that kind of experience happen anymore,” said Noe Valley resident Maya Goss, who coordinated the event. “It gives them a place to be with their children. It gives them music to listen to. It gives them delicious food to try.”
Lambert Moss, a San Francisco-based jazz and cabaret singer known for his performances in local queer and live music venues, returned to emcee the event along with a plethora of musical artists.
First-time attendee and local resident Angel Contreras said events like the night market have become a staple for the community.
“They’re fantastic… we are always looking for night markets or anything that is community-oriented in the area,” Contreras said.
Organizers said that the market will continue to run monthly with street closures on 24th Street between Sanchez Street and Vicksburg Street.