Saturday night saw Central Square’s University Park transform into the bustling cultural smorgasbord common in cultures from around East and Southeast Asia — showcasing the substantial number of people in Cambridge who’ve moved from those areas.
Michael Monestime, president of the Central Square Business Improvement District, said the district organizes the market to create an environment where artists, creators and chefs can introduce their heritages to the community. “You’re going to smell all the food from around the world, because the world lives here in Central Square: Nepali food, Thai food, Haitian food, Jamaican food,” he said.
This was the third annual Central Square Night Market, and it drew about 8,000 visitors and featured over 50 local vendors offering cuisine and other goodies from around the world. In addition, it had six performances, including a DJ set, a violinist and a Japanese pop rock band. People could play games like Mario Kart projected on a big screen and a giant version of Jenga, relax in a beer garden or sit at tables throughout the park, enjoying their food and the scene.
The event attracted visitors of all ages and even an array of dog companions. There were vendors such as the Power Within, a local husband-and-wife duo who sell vinyl records by Black artists at markets and pop-ups, and Everybody Gotta Eat, a restaurant and event vendor focused on creating community through food.
A vendor appearing at the market for the first time was Miracle of Science Bar & Grill. The bar, a fixture for Cambridge locals, students and professors since 1991, is located just a few streets away. “We are a big community bar, and we have a ton of regulars,” said Miracle of Science bartender Dani Benson. She said it was exciting to batch and serve their cocktails, including watermelon margaritas and sangria, at the night market.
Among the performers were Anan Onda of Shiori Kubrick, a “J-Pop” or Japanese-inspired pop rock band. His pre-show ritual included dancing to Stealth Mode’s DJ set before his band went on. Originally from Japan, Onda said he loves the vibes in Cambridge.
“The night market is cool. I really like it,” Onda said. “I really like the variety of foods. It’s kind of international.”
The goal of the Central Square Night Market is to showcase Cambridge’s unique flavors and cultures while bringing people together for a night of food and fun.
“Central is this special place that everyone feels seen and feels connected to,” Monestime said. “So tonight’s a night where you’re going to see your friends, you’re gonna bring a friend, and you’re just going to enjoy something: joy and discovery at Central Square.”
This story is part of a partnership between Cambridge Day and the Boston University Department of Journalism’s Newsroom program.
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