SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — “Sunset After Dark,” a new night market kicked off Friday in San Francisco. Organizers call it a grassroots celebration of the Sunset District.
The first Sunset Night Market stretched seven blocks along Irving Street and drew as many as 20,000 people each time.
Sunset After Dark is smaller, but organizers say it’s just as exciting with a lot of different types of foods to try and vendors to check out.
They say the event is truly community-run and neighborhood-focused.
At Smokin D’s on Irving Street, owner Daniel Ramirez is getting the brisket ready for Sunset After Dark.
Smokin D’s is one of the co-organizers of the new and improved night market in the Sunset District.
“We’re really looking forward to getting everyone to celebrate diversity of Irving Street,” said Daniel Ramirez, Owner of Smokin D’s.
MORE: SF’s Sunset Night Market canceled for 2025 as delayed payments affect planning
The Sunset after Dark Night Market will span three blocks instead of ten. But, this one will support AAPI businesses as well as black-owned and minority businesses, according to co-organizer Dear Community.
“We’re really excited to be a part of this community. Uplift the community and celebrating together,” said Rob Aiavao, Dear Community Board Member. “We knew there was a gap that needed to be filled so we wanted to step in and help with that.”
Some merchants complained that the event hurt their business and impacted deliveries because streets closed down early-at 8 in the morning to get ready. Not this time.
“So, we actually start closures at 3pm today–Friday. It gives us less time to get everything set up, but it just means more prep work on our end,” said Aiavao.
The previous Sunset Night Market started in 2023. Despite massive turnout at the popular event, the night market was canceled.
MORE: SF’s Sunset Night Market returns with thousands of people hungry for food and a great time
According to recalled Supervisor Joel Engardio, there were delays in payment from the city to the market’s producers. Canceling the night market upset a lot of people.
“I was upset as well. That’s what sprung me into action by organizing an effort to bring it back on a smaller scale,” said Ramirez.
Community members and nonprofit groups took action.
Instead of counting on city funds, they secured a sponsorship from Civic Joy Fund and private donations to launch a smaller night market.
“This allows us to have more flexibility which is the reason we are able to move things so quickly,” said Ramirez.
Engardio told ABC7 News says he supports this new effort.
“I’m so excited to see this community-led event happening on Irving Street in the Sunset. A couple years ago, we proved it was possible-the night markets– and now, they’re all over the city. It’s a wonderful thing and I’m so glad the tradition is continuing,” said Engardio.
Local businesses are also thrilled.
“I like to do it every month if we can because it’s going to bring people out and people are going to know about Irving,” said Jet Seeto with The Mochi Donut Shop.
MORE: Asian-inspired night market has successful trial run in San Francisco’s Sunset District
Hakim Husien with Sunrise Deli says the huge crowds last time were a bit overwhelming. But this time.
“Now we are ready for it. We know what to do,” said Husien. “It really is a positive thing for the community. It brings everyone out.”
Organizers say Sunset After Dark will feature live performances and DJs, dozens of vendors, and a rib-eating contest. Proceeds from a carnival fundraiser at the market will benefit Lawton School’s PTA.
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