Hot temperatures during the day may keep Southern Californians close to their air conditioning or swimming pools, but summer nights in the region are a treat for those with an appetite for adventure.
“When it gets dark, it’s like Thailand,” said Chinnakrit Soonthornwan, co-founder and co-owner of the DS Night Market, in a phone interview. “We love summer.”
The DS Night Market operates on weekends, from Friday to Sunday, in Los Angeles’ Chinatown. It was founded by four filmmaker friends seeking ways to connect with the community following the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’re trying to create a safe space for everyone to hang out at night, and Chinatown has always been dead during the day, so we got excellent feedback from neighbors after we started hosting our night market in this new location,” he said. “We bring in a lot of people.”
Soonthornwan added that joining the night market scene as a vendor is also a great opportunity for vendors and cooks looking to break into the SoCal restaurant business. He’s witnessed as vendors set up shop fueled by a passion for the food, and worked their way up to opening their own brick-and-mortar joints.
“It’s been a year and a half, and we’re trying our best to grow,” he continued, noting that the process hasn’t been without obstacles. “The economy, the politics, the drama . . . but we’re not going to give up. We try to celebrate every weekend.”
For Soonthornwan, part of the night market is finding new people to celebrate with by bonding over their favorite Thai foods and other international dishes from Latin America and elsewhere sprinkled in among the booths. Soonthornwan said he and his fellow co-founders try to engage the all-ages crowd by hosting games such as musical chairs or giving people celebrating their birthdays a random gift.
Part of the evenings at the weekend market include EDM nights on Fridays and Saturdays, hosting live bands and musicians, ranging from professional musicians to high school kids looking to book their first gig. Sundays are a wind-down day that invites attendees to karaoke.
“I’m the host, so I connect with people who are very shy and come with their family, but after the whole night, they come out and sing,” Soonthornwan said. “It’s not perfect, but I can see the family smiling and it’s beautiful.”
Along with DS Night Market, here are some of the buzziest markets that set up shop across Southern California. Be sure to check the night markets’ official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information, and plan your visit before the summer ends.
SEE ALSO: Surf City Nights makes comeback in downtown Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach Surf City Nights Market
Every Tuesday, Southern Californians and others are invited to participate in Huntington Beach’s Surf City Nights in downtown Huntington Beach, which includes a street fair and farmers market. The event closes off the first three blocks of Main Street and transforms them into a night market with local artisans, fresh produce, live music, kids’ games and more. The local shops and eateries are also open if you’ve got a favorite eatery or bar, or just want to check out some of the sidewalk sales and exclusive deals. Locals bike and walk here every week to buy groceries and hang out.
When: 5 p.m.- 9 p.m. Tuesdays.
Where: Main Street, Huntington Beach.
Information: surfcityusa.com.
Night Market El Gato
One of the biggest night markets in Los Angeles is Night Market El Gato, where they take street food to delicious new levels. The cuisine at the market is a melting pot of cultures that serve staple dishes and a few fusions. Attendees can order sushi handrolls the size of burritos and hibachi plates with juicy short ribs, chicken, shrimp, salmon, and lobster tail. The desserts are adventurous and will satisfy any sweet tooth with items like the Concha Ice Cream, made with pan dulce and stuffed with creamy ice cream, fresh strawberries, topped with a drizzle of tres leches and whipped cream.
When: 5 p.m.- midnight, Thursday and Friday, and 3 p.m.- 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Where: 941 S Union Ave., Los Angeles.
Information: tiktok.com/@nightmarketelgato.
SEE ALSO: Little Saigon’s night market draws largest crowd yet
Little Saigon Night Market, Westminster
Located in the Vietnamese cultural hub of Westminster, the Asian Garden boasts several events year-round, including the annual Tet / Lunar New Year to Mid-Autumn / Moon Festival, the Flower Festival and the Little Saigon Night Market. Since 2011, the Asian Garden has hosted open-air night markets that center Asian culture in Southern California. Visitors are invited to stroll, shop and eat Vietnamese street food while listening to live music during the summer nights and evenings. There will also be a variety of vendors selling skincare products, clothing, accessories and toys. Moran Street or Bishop Street is recommended for accessing the free parking lots.
When: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. Friday-Sunday, until Aug 31.
Where: Asian Garden, 9200 Bolsa Ave., Westminster.
Information: asiangardenmall.com.
Smorgasburg
Although this food market is technically only open during the day, we would be remiss if we didn’t include it in this roundup. Smorgasburg operates the largest open-air food markets in the country, with locations in New York, Jersey City, Miami, and other international locations in São Paulo and Toronto. The Los Angeles location provides a platform for nearly 100 small businesses curated from innovative sellers in the Southern California food, beverage and shopping scenes. The space also hosts a beer garden, if you’re looking to take your time walking around while sipping a brewskie. Pro-tip: Arrive with an appetite and walk around the whole place before deciding. A complete list of the vendors is available online.
When: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sundays.
Where: 777 S Alameda St., Los Angeles.
Information: la.smorgasburg.com.
Commerce Casino Night Market
Commerce Casino & Hotel in Commerce invites guests to take a break from card games and slots to enjoy a summer night market. The night market will host food trucks, live entertainment and more. If you’ve been wanting to check out the property and want to make a stay of it, you can also stay the night and into the weekend to get the whole experience.
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Thursdays.
Where: The Commerce Casino & Hotel, 6131 Telegraph Road, Commerce
Information: commercecasino.com.
SEE ALSO: 626 Night Market in Santa Monica joins forces with HBO to give people a taste of Vietnam
626 Night Market – Costa Mesa
The 626 Night Market brings a taste of Asia’s legendary night bazaars to Southern California, offering a fun mix of food, shopping and entertainment. Since 2012, this lively event has become a staple for locals in the San Gabriel Valley and beyond. The market features an impressive variety of street food, from savory bites like Korean BBQ tacos to sweet treats such as matcha churros. It’s not just about the food though; there’s also live music, local artists showcasing their work, and plenty of opportunities to shop from small, unique vendors.
When: 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. Sept. 5-7
Where: 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Information: 626nightmarket.com.
Los Feliz Night Market
If you’re looking to add a little flavor to your midweek routine, the Los Feliz Night Market is the place to be. Los Angeles’ first weeknight night market takes over every Tuesday and Wednesday evening, offering a chill spot to unwind with local food vendors, live music, and good company. Whether you’re craving tacos, sushi, or something sweet, the food offerings have something for everyone. Beyond the food, there’s plenty to explore, from local crafts to live sports on the big screen. The event is pet-friendly and perfect for all ages, with free parking and entry to make it even easier to drop by and soak in the relaxed, community atmosphere.
When: 6 p.m.- midnight, Tuesday & Wednesday
Where: 3013 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039
Information: eventbrite.com.
Alameda Night Market
The Alameda Night Market offers an authentic taste of Mexican street food in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Set in a spacious parking lot near the Fashion District, this weekend gathering features a variety of vendors serving up favorites like birria tacos, pupusas, quesadillas, and churros.
When: 6 p.m. – midnight on Friday; 5 p.m. – midnight on Saturday; 5 p.m.-11 on p.m. Sunday
Where: 1114 S Main St, Los Angeles
Information: Instagram: @alamedanightmarket
DS Night Market
The DS Night Market, located in Chinatown, offers a laid-back vibe with a focus on authentic Thai food and international eats. Set on Mei Ling Way, this weekend market brings together food vendors serving everything from savory Thai dishes like crispy pork belly and papaya salad to other international favorites. It’s a great spot to enjoy some delicious bites while soaking in the lively atmosphere with live music and a mix of locals and visitors. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or just looking for a casual night out, the DS Night Market is a solid pick.
When: 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. Friday–Saturday; 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday
Where: 932 Mei Ling Way, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Information: Instagram: @dsnightmarket
