Myron Lee and Lily Lo of BeChinatown are once again spearheading the event. The night markets will take place on Grant Avenue, a historic artery of San Francisco’s Chinatown. Each month, five blocks between California and Pacific Streets will be transformed into a festive pedestrian zone filled with over 40 food vendors, representing a variety of Asian culinary traditions.
Lo shared her surprise at how well the night markets have resonated with young professionals, many of whom have been working from home and are seeking new community spaces and outdoor events. “I never thought so many young people, especially people who have been working at home, would come,” she said. “It’s been very successful. I’m very proud of it.”
The markets have proven not only to be cultural successes but also economic boons. Organizers reported that participating businesses regularly made anywhere from four to five figures in revenue during each market. The impact extended beyond just the vendors; nearby brick-and-mortar businesses have also seen an uptick in sales by staying open later during event nights.
In addition to food and shopping, this year’s market will include new entertainment features to enhance the experience. A stage will be installed directly on Grant Avenue, hosting live music performances by AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) bands. This new element is intended to celebrate the community’s diversity and creativity while drawing more attendees to the event.
Two nearby blocks on Waverly Place will also be part of the festivities, hosting a range of family-friendly games, arts, and crafts stations. This addition ensures that the night market caters to all age groups, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for both residents and visitors.
Manny Yekutiel, executive director of the Civic Joy Fund, has been instrumental in reviving nighttime life in San Francisco and emphasized that Chinatown’s market was the catalyst for broader efforts across the city. “The Chinatown night market was our first foray into making San Francisco the night market city,” he said. “Because it was so successful, bringing over 10,000 people to Chinatown once a month, Civic Joy Fund has expanded the night market program to include 10 night markets around San Francisco.”
Vendor participation in the Chinatown night market is based on a first come, first served application process. Organizers prioritize Chinatown-based businesses but also welcome AANHPI-owned businesses from across the city to apply. Vendor slots are expected to fill quickly due to the popularity and visibility of the event.
Participation does require a fee, which helps cover operational costs such as street closures, security, entertainment, and logistics. Interested vendors can apply through BeChinatown's official website or via their Instagram profile, both of which provide updates and registration links.
The first of the six night markets kicks off on May 9 and will run from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event will continue every second Friday of the month through October, offering locals and tourists alike an opportunity to enjoy San Francisco’s Chinatown in a new light—literally and figuratively.
With its blend of heritage, cuisine, music, and entrepreneurship, the Chinatown night market is not just a neighborhood gathering. It is quickly becoming a flagship example of how community events can breathe life into urban centers, celebrate cultural identity, and support local economies. As San Francisco continues to redefine its post-pandemic public life, the night market stands as a model of joy, resilience, and community-driven revival.
