Buy local after dark at the West Homewood Night Market

When the sun sets over Shades Valley Community Church on Thursday, Aug. 21, the glow of string lights and the sounds of a live band will signal the beginning of the West Homewood Night Market.

The night market will be held one Thursday a month through October and is a continuation of the West Homewood Farmer’s Markets held in June and July. Market manager Kenyon Ross said a group of 10 to 15 people, called “What is Good?,” organizes the markets to promote healthy food and community. The number of vendors is intentionally kept low to encourage a casual, friendly atmosphere.

“We feel like by having a really small, intimate market, it’s easier for people to get to know each other,” Ross said. “We’re just trying to do something good for the neighborhood.”

Ross described the night market as a “festival of sorts,” attended by anywhere from 500 to 1,000 people from across the city. Visitors enjoy live music, children’s activities and the Cantina on Wheels food truck as they shop for fall produce and homemade crafts.

“We’ve just created a space where it’s easy to come and hang out,” Ross said.

Now in its fourth year, the night market continues to add new features. This year, certain markets will include a film showing about healthy eating. The second annual Fresh Start 5K will also be held on Saturday, Oct. 18, two days after the final night market.

While the night market is only one of many farmers markets in the Homewood area, Ross does not see it as a competition. He wants to see similar small markets pop up around the city so every community has a place to socialize and buy healthy foods.

“We’re really big proponents of lots of markets happening. We feel that’s a movement that’s only positive,” Ross said.

Ross enjoys the food and friendships fostered at the night market. However, his favorite part is the simple pleasure of seeing the market light up for the first time.

“When you turn [the lights] on, it’s just a nostalgic feeling for me,” Ross said. “I just love it.”

To learn more, call 427-5665 or email info@westhomewood.com.