From the accounts of my friends, and from what I could tell just by looking at pictures, the first 626 Night Market was a nightmare. The lot where it was held was absolutely packed. Absolutely packed being an understatement. There was just a sea of people, and it took a half an hour just to make it to the other side of the parking lot, after shimmying and evasive-maneuvering around the densely packed crowd of people.
I did, however, get the chance to visit the second and most recent night market yesterday, Saturday, July 28. The event was very spaced out and took up an advertised 10,000 square foot lot at Pasadena City Hall. Everywhere I turned, I saw food trucks, food stands, merchandise shops, even a few carnival games, and, of course, tons of people. This is even with the streets blocked off and having the entire street to roam.
Thankfully, the event was still fun despite the crowds. I was there from about 9-10 PM, and the lines for food or any sort of treat were just too long. There wasn’t too many people getting in my way, though, I would just equate it to any other day at Disneyland. Disneyland with amazing aromas and traditional odors of stinky tofu.
Just about every business in the SGV was there. I recognized local favorites like Starry Tea Bar and Yogurtland, and even smaller ones like Ten Ren’s Tea Time. I also saw the new ones, like Ray Rays over in Alhambra.
The event was definitely the place to be that night. Along with the food and trinkets, there was a small dance floor where SGV dancers exhibited their finest moves.
Overall, I had a great time at the night market and would have loved to spend more time there than I did. Events like these make me think that the 626 is going to be a household term in a few years. I hope the planners do decide to hold another night market in the near future, one I’d eagerly attend.
(All photos courtesy of Joseph Chan Photography)