A popular downtown Cedar Rapids event is returning Saturday. Market After Dark is Lighting the Night with Alliant Energy and bringing more than 100 vendors, plus entertainment, special lighted attractions, games and more to downtown for a free, outdoor community event.
The sixth annual Market After Dark runs from 6:30-11 p.m. in an expanded area to allow for more social distancing among market guests and vendors according to a release. Admission is free.
This year the nighttime market features three outdoor entertainment venues to encourage market revelers to spread out while enjoying live music and entertainment.
Gina Owens will perform country music on stage at Third Street SE between Third and Fourth avenues SE; Tom’s Top 8, a pop-punk group, will entertain at Second Street SE between Second and Third avenues SE; and Clife DJ Company will spin and mix songs as well as host a social photo-booth in Greene Square.
Following the theme of Lighting the Night with Alliant Energy, guests wandering through the market will be treated to light-up ballerinas at Fifth Street and Third Avenue SE and various street artists.
More than 100 vendors will offer a unique variety of prepared food, baked goods, produce and material goods that differ from the usual morning market fare. Those attending will be encouraged to walk in a one-way directional loop at the market, similar to the loop at the Downtown Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. A special seating area will be available at the corner of Third Street and Third Avenue SE.
Patrons 21 years and older can take part in an open-container environment within the designated market area. Those wishing to purchase alcoholic beverages must pay a $1 cup fee when presenting proof of age at special identification tents. Beer and wine will be sold at various locations for $5 in disposable Market After Dark cups until 10:30 p.m. Soda and water will be available for $2. The open container policy within the market area starts at 6:30 p.m. and ends promptly at 11 p.m. Alcohol will also be sold at participating downtown establishments.
“Market After Dark is a terrific opportunity to introduce and showcase our vibrant and fun Downtown District,” said Doug Neumann, executive director of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. “We’re proud to host this free open-air event that supports local businesses, entrepreneurs and our surrounding communities.”
More event details can be found here: https://web.cedarrapids.org/events/MarketAfter-Dark-7885/details
