Queens Night Market is excited to be preparing for its 10th summer season! Prepare to experience a fantastic array of food from around the world at incredible prices. Each Saturday, from May 3 to October 25, food lovers and curious consumers can discover the market’s amazing selection of products. Come celebrate with us from 4 p.m. to midnight for creative food and fun! You’ll have three full days to enjoy world-class treats from more than 100 vendors representing 95 countries.
Even with higher costs all around, the Queens Night Market has not raised prices for anything. Guests will be shocked to learn that everything on the menu costs between $5 and $6. This selectivity further illustrates how deeply the market is committed to affordability. As John Wang, the market’s founder, told NPR, this decision was a big deal.
“What the vendors decided upon was a tremendous gift to NYC,” – John Wang
In just three seasons since opening in 2015, the Queens Night Market has featured over 600 different vendors. Of those, 450 have officially opened their businesses at this thriving site. Wang mobilized companies and philanthropic groups to get them to cover costs and waive vendor fees. Though this was a challenge, it’s remarkable that over 80% of the hawkers in this competition voted to maintain the new low prices.
This year, the market has seen several new vendors bring their businesses to the market. Their inclusion highlights the incredible culinary diversity we have right here in Queens even further! Visitors can look forward to a worldly mix of cuisine, from Haitian specialties to Ukrainian comfort food. Vendors such as Christian Cassagnol, who runs the popular Haitian hot spot Cassa, are enthusiastic about introducing new guests to the rich culinary traditions of their homelands.
“I told him, ‘Pa, let’s do it in New York,’ and so here we are,” – Christian Cassagnol
The Knish’s Sheila Kushner couldn’t be more delighted to introduce her traditional, savory Ukrainian potato knish.
“I’m super excited for people to try this and to see the kind of knish I grew up with,” – Sheila Kushner
Sitting proudly in Kingston’s foodiverse alongside them is the other marquee of this movement, Ella Spice, headed by trailblazing chef Akera Phillip. Their Breadfruit Croquettes were an instant hit with visitors. The market continues to be a lively place, giving visitors an opportunity to taste one-of-a-kind creations. While doing all this, it gives the local entrepreneurs a chance to thrive.
In addition to its culinary offerings, the popularity of the Queens Night Market is due in large part to the crowd it attracts. It’s easy to see why the event has attracted over 3 million visitors since first opening its doors. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with a rich cultural experience while helping stimulate economic growth for area businesses.
The market will be closed August 23 – September 26 for the US Open. This pause allows vendors and attendees alike to savor the thrill of both gatherings. Everyone from developers to transit advocates have applauded their decision to remain affordable. This action is welcome at a time when the costs of everyday life keep climbing.
“At a time when we seem to be consistently paying $5 to $6 for even a cup of coffee, the vendors have helped create an oasis — right when our wallets need it most,” – John Wang
The Queens Night Market demonstrates this commitment to serving affordable and diverse cuisine. It has quickly become a beacon for food lovers and is a testament to the bold, artistic spirit of the community. This summer season should prove to be just the next page in what has become a market extraordinary tale of twists and turns.
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