As evening falls this Aug. 9, see Plain Township’s Oakwood Square light up the night — full of vendors, entertainment and refreshments. Sidestreet MKTS’ new night market allows visitors to experience a unique, open-air shopping experience at dusk from 5 to 9 p.m.
“It’s close to the … Hall of Fame enshrinement festivities, and we’re kind of tagging on to that, continuing a party in the Canton area,” says Lynn Shimko, co-owner and organizer of 720 Market, which owns and operates Sidestreet MKTS.
Sidestreet MKTS was formed in 2020, when larger 720 Market events — sprawling markets in the Canton area, filled with local vendors — could not be held due to COVID restrictions.
“We met with the owners at Oakwood Square. … They wanted us to help them bring in some more activity to the plaza. We ... put together a market similar to 720, but it was a smaller footprint,” shares Shimko. “It just gained popularity, and we’ve had it ever since on second Saturdays from May through October.”
Like other Sidestreet MKTS events, the night market is set to include 50 to 60 vendors, selling everything from permanent jewelry to clothing. Buy a bouquet of flowers from the Uniontown-based Bloom Hill Farm, a cheeky embroidered top from Youngstown-based SistaSistasCreations or an intricate door hanger from Alliance’s Nailed It Wood Projects.
“I hope they’re going to appreciate that they’re shopping local, they’re keeping their dollars with neighbors,” Shimko says.
Hungry guests can snack on fresh pickles from the Crazy Cucumber, sweets from Fat T’s Cookies, charcuterie from Curated Cart & The Girl and more. New this year is a farmers row, which is set to feature food vendors selling items such as meats and fresh vegetables. Plus, grab a local craft beer from a concession stand, and sip as you stroll.
“It’ll be something unique,” Shimko says. “It’ll be a fun activity in the summer for after hours.”
The night market also brings entertainment — hear blues music from Soulshine Blues Trio as you shop.
“It’s always such a good vibe at every one of our events. It’s good people, good vendors. The music is always really perfect,” Shimko says. “It also makes you feel good.”
2610 Easton Ave. NE, Canton, eventsby720.com
720 Market
720 Market
720 Market
720 Market
