Arcadia may have a ban on fireworks but the 626 Night Market will offer a dazzling alternative three times Saturday night — a Laser Extravaganza and DJ Set at 9 p.m., 10:30 p.m., and 11:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4th.
626 Night Market begins its fourth season this Friday through Sunday, July 3-5, with the first of its tri-annual three-day flagship events at Santa Anita Park, 285 W. Huntington Drive in Arcadia. The 626 Night Market season continues on August 7-9 and September 4-6. Event hours are 4 p.m. – 1 a.m. on Fridays & Saturdays and 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $3 and parking is free; children 6 and under get in free. The event will feature over 200 food, merchandise, crafts, arts, games, music, and entertainment attractions.
626 Night Market is the original and largest Asianthemed night market in the United States. In the spirit of the year’s theme, “Welcome to your night market,” to showcase local talent and encourage community participation, the following are additional special events and highlights happening this weekend at 626 Night Market:
Speed Dating Friday, July 3rd at 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. Attendees can meet other singles who share the same passions for foods and most importantly, 626 Night Market. Signups are onsite at the Info Booth; the first round at 8 p.m. (15 pairs) is free and $3 thereafter.
Live Calligraphy Saturday, July 4th at 6 p.m. Shoran, the famed calligraphy artist hailing from Japan, will perform live calligraphy demonstrations at the Art Walk. Her Japanese Calligraphy involves writing Kanji characters and pictures on a large piece of paper/cloth with a large brush and is accompanied by a Taiko drummer.
Spray Paint Art Battle Sunday, July 5th at 7:00pm. The annual Spray Paint Art Battle, to take place at the Art Walk, will feature competing artists Kopyeson, AISE, RIPS, and Par One. Attendees then vote on Facebook for their favorite piece to be crowned Champion and winner of a $500 cash prize.
Floating Wish Garden Night market visitors can walk amongst floating lighted balloons in the grassy center of the Garden Paddocks facing the Main Stage and read other people’s wishes. For those desiring to contribute a wish to the garden, balloons are available for purchase.
View the full entertainment lineups & attractions at 626 Night Market: ● Performer Lineup www.626nightmarket.com/performers ● Art Walk Lineup www.626nightmarket.com/artists ● DJ Lineup www.626nightmarket.com/djs
Get a sneak peek of this weekend’s notable vendor offerings on the 626 Night Market blog: http://bit.ly/626NMJuly2015preview
Event sponsors are Toyota, Kirin Beer, McDonald’s, Wells Fargo, Nielsen, and LA Weekly (media partner).
— By Scott Hettrick