Night market coming to Schenectady's Jay Street
SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- A new night market is coming to Schenectady's Jay Street this spooky season. Nightmare on Jay Street Market is set for October 19 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Owner and Director Kayla Ek wanted to create this event after realizing there weren't enough gallery or markets in the area that showcase alternative styles of art. "I wanted to do something about it and really create an event that highlights the diverse creators we have in our local community," said Ek.
Ek began planning for Nightmare on Jay Street Market in November 2023. She spoke with the Jay Street Business Association and then with the Mayor's Office, who gave their full support for the event.
Nightmare on Jay Street Market includes over 50 vendors selling artwork, Halloween-themed creations, curiosities, oddities, and more. The market also includes a fire performance, tarot readings, wild bird handlers, a henna artist, balloon artists, and a face painter. You can view the full event map with vendors on the Nightmare on Jay Street Market website.
Ek said she had no trouble finding vendors as she had over 150 applicants. "It made selecting our 57 vendors for our debut very difficult," said Ek. "It's been phenomenal working and collaborating with our local business owners."
Nightmare on Jay Street Market already has two dates set up for 2025 on the third Saturday of May and October. Ek said they are hoping for more live performances, local talent, and live art making for the 2025 night markets.
"We are also currently looking locally at indoor venues to continue the market in winter months," said Ek. "Our goal has always been to grow the market to four dates a year and hopefully, by the end of 2025, we will get there!"
Although Nightmare on Jay Street Market is adult-centered, it has a family-friendly atmosphere, said Ek. "Our market is a celebration of our alternative community, for the whole community."
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