Dresden is bringing back its Summer Night Market and organizers say it will be "bigger and better than ever."
The popular event returns on July 23 and will feature local vendors, food trucks, live music, a pop-up bar, and downtown businesses and restaurants staying open late.
“We’ve added some new performers this year and we’re excited to see them interact with the crowd," said Co-Organizer Tyler Ouellette. "The BIA is also transforming a section of St. George Street to showcase the downtown businesses. Artists have painted some picnic tables to add a splash of colour to the seating areas."
The event will be taking place downtown from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and will extend into Jackson Park. Vendors and community groups will have their booths on Main Street and Brown Street.
“There will be about a dozen community groups and non-profit organizations joining us this year," said Co-Organizer Morena McDonald. "We want to highlight the great work they're doing across Chatham-Kent, but we also want to help guests and residents find opportunities to be more involved in the community through volunteering."
Another new aspect is a zero-waste approach.
"A lot of waste is generated at events, and we’re hoping to reduce waste as much as we can," said Ouellette. "We’ll be giving each pop-up bar guest one reusable cup to use at the night market, and they can bring it back to use at our future events."
Residents are also encouraged to bring their own reusable utensils as a way to help cut down on food packaging waste.
"We’re also encouraging food vendors to ask guests if they need any of these items before ordering," said Ouellette. "They’ll still have plastic utensils and straws if needed, and food will still be served in single-use containers."
The market was created in 2017 by a small group of friends and takes place during the holiday season and in the summer.
It is made possible through the Together CK municipal grant.
