Schenectady’s First-Ever Night Market: A Unique Twist You Can’t Miss!
Schenectady recently hosted its very first night market, and it wasn’t your typical farmer’s market. The event, called “Nightmare on Jay Street,” took place on Saturday evening, offering residents a unique experience filled with art that was both strange and intriguing.
Unlike traditional markets, this one had a Halloween-inspired twist, making it stand out as something truly different.
Kayla Ek, the director and owner of Nightmare on Jay Street, explained that the purpose of the market was to highlight alternative art and bring the community together. She transformed the familiar Jay Street Marketplace into a one-of-a-kind space where residents could experience art in a new way.
According to Kayla, the market wasn’t just for those in the alternative art community, but for everyone in Schenectady. “We’re inviting everybody to come and celebrate everything they make, how they are different, and what they do,” she said.
With over 50 vendors participating, most of them local, the market had something for everyone. Artists showcased a variety of creations, from custom-made fans and wands to unique jewelry, paintings, and even decorated bones.
One vendor, Livia, the owner of ZZGoblinn, displayed a bone from a cow named Chelsea, which she had turned into art. “I bought the bone and then I get to make art out of it,” she shared.
Another vendor, Cheyenne Clarke, owner of Womb to Womb Adornments, brought handmade wands, fairy wings, and earrings.
Her creations were made using natural materials like fruits and flowers. One of her wands, crafted from a sunflower stem, featured amethyst, clear quartz, and an evil eye for protection. Cheyenne’s work reflected the natural world while embracing the mystical.
In addition to individual artists, a nonprofit organization called Whispering Willow Wild Care attended the event.
The organization helps injured wildlife, including owls, and raises funds to keep the animals alive and healthy. Joyce Perry, the owner of Whispering Willow Wild Care, brought one of her owls to the event, giving attendees a chance to see these beautiful creatures up close.
Regardless of the art being displayed, vendors like Cheyenne felt that the market offered something special.
“I think that oftentimes when we think of art, we think of fine art instead of art as a way to bring people together to express your most vulnerable parts of yourself,” Cheyenne said.
Another vendor, Lilly Chinruiz, the owner of Lilliko, sold decorated fans and prosperity dragons. She believed the market brought the Schenectady community closer together.
“As a whole, I think it’s nice to bring the community together, and I hope everybody just walks away with a renewed vigor of childlike magic and fun,” said Lilly.
Kayla shared that this night market is only the beginning. Starting in May 2025, there will be more events like this, held on the third Saturday of May and October each year.
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Those interested in learning more about future events can visit the Nightmare on Jay Street website.