Discover why thousands came to enjoy this annual festival. Missed it? They’re holding another on August 25!
Unique to outer East Portland, the 2018 ‘Jade District Night Market’ offers fun and food for thousands of visitors.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It’s the fifth year for the Jade District Night Market, a unique event held on two successive Saturdays in August – which got off to a good start on August 18.
The Portland Community College Southeast Campus was all decked out with entertainment stages, lights, and many canopies – under which vendors peddled goods, and organizations spread the word about their work.
Co-organizers Rosaline Hui and Nanette Tran say they enjoy watching guests have fun at the Jade Night Market.
“We’re happy that our Night Market seems to get better every year,” said one of its two main producers, Hong Kong immigrant Rosaline Hui, editor of the Portland Chinese Times.
“Now that it’s going, it is good to see so many people coming, enjoying the good atmosphere we provide; but, the work starts six months before the event, in order to bring all the elements together,” Hui told East Portland News.
Energetically drumming syncopated rhythms is the taiko group Unit Souzou.
Giving informational flyers to people attending the Night Market is Jade District Steering Committee Member Mary Lao.
“What people tell us they like most are the performances, and the food,” Hui pointed out.
Throughout the evening, entertainment – ranging from international performance art, to music – was representative the diverse cultures of the Jade International District. And the Night Market’s large dining area featured food vendors, serving many styles of cuisine, from sweet to savory.
People hungry for the taste of the Orient are tempted by the savory scents of fresh dishes cooking at the kiosks.
At the grill, Joshua McMoore prepares food at ‘Da Grub Shack’.
“People tell us they like this concept so much: Being able to come outdoors on a summer evening to enjoy the diverse cultures here,” grinned Hui.
If they could, they’d thank the about 80 volunteers who help put on the two-night festival, said Hui. “And, we’re thankful for the delightful environment provided at the PCC Southeast Campus. Many people come both nights; this is a place of people want to come and spend good times!”
Browsing the booths, enjoying live entertainment and people-watching, are all part of the fun at the Jade Night Market.
‘Jade Night Market’ returns on August 25
From 5:00 until 10:00 p.m. on August 25, you, too, can enjoy this multi-cultural event bringing a wide range of Jade District food, vending, and entertainment together for you to enjoy. It’s at Portland Community College’s Southeast Campus at 2305 SE 82nd Avenue, 97216.
>> On our Front Page: Alissa Somvong of Pai Tong Thai Cuisine serves up another fresh, delicious dish.
© 2018 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
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