MPR News – Arts and Culture
Jon Collins – August 7, 2015
Little Mekong Night Market is returning to St. Paul this weekend, expanding its footprint to both sides of University Avenue.
The yearly two-day event is modeled after night markets in Southeast Asia, but with what event coordinator Audrey Park called a “St. Paul sort of twist.”
The night market includes food vendors, performers and art from the nearby neighborhood. Vendors will send foods based on Korean, Hmong, Lao and even soul food traditions. Performances of breakdancing, music and traditional dance will take place on three stages in the area.
“It kind of has this carnival-esque feeling to it. It’s this very unique energy that a night market has,” Park said. “What they can expect is a lot of food, a lot of art and interactive activities as well.”
This year, there will also be healthy activities like a bike ride to the market. And attendees will have the opportunity to pick up skills from dancers, hula hoopers or other performers.
The event takes place on Western Avenue on both sides of University Avenue from 6 p.m. to midnight on Friday and from 4 p.m. to midnight on Saturday. Entrance to the event is free and all events are child friendly.
The market is organized by the Asian Economic Development Association. It’s supported this year by a grant from the Knight Foundation, and by sponsors including Target Corporation and Sunrise Banks, among others.