As lights glimmer and music fills the air, the night market comes alive. We saw the BAC Art Community in Zhuantang, Xihu District, hosted a sprawling “Night Market Feast,” captivating locals and travelers alike with its vibes and food offerings.

“Evening foot traffic is on the rise and bring the place to life,” said a BAC officer. The market’s plaza features beer and other alcohols, while the side street is dedicated to snacks. The market is now packed with 60 vendors from across the country. They offer a wide range of food - stir-fries, grilled specialties, chilled marinated dishes, dim sum, ice drinks, and even desserts.

The market is alive every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and on public holidays from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, i.e. a time length from the summer to around the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival.

Nightlife blossoms here, thanks to the night stands. They are appealing to parents, kids, and young men and women chitchatting by the tables. A lady surnamed Liu said she loves BAC’s events. There is even a food stand she’s been longing for. “Exciting to get something I dreamed at the doorstep!”

Jason, a scallion oil noodle vendor, was a traveler around the nation. “That’s the ‘street economy’ that is friendly to people like me. The market is fantastic, that I can sell over a hundred bowls per night.” Jason is planning to join the “Tangren Street Market” to stay longer.

“We found Zhuangtang a place full of a vibe of life art. Measures have been taken since the beginning of this year to spice up the shopping experience. We set rules for the stands, bring in signature brands, and identify pet-friendly zones,” said the local authority. He said they are trying to fill the place with more thrills - night shows, water splashes, carnivals, light shows, and even the nighttime bazaars at BAC and Hejia Village - all designed to help spur the local economy and enrich people’s life.