The annual 865 Night Market lit up 21st Mortgage Plaza with a vibrant mix of food, fun, and community spirit. What started as a traditional event organized by the Center for Student Engagement has transformed into a fully student-led celebration this year.
For many years, the Night Market has served as a platform for student organizations to unite and showcase their clubs, especially through food sales. This year’s event featured 17 student groups, with the Asian American Association (AAA) taking the lead in organizing everything.
Emily Nguyen, a junior studying biochemistry and the president of AAA, shared how easy it was to get everyone involved. “Everyone did their part and helped us out,” she said. The association also hosted a raffle, offering prizes like keychains and cute figurines to draw in attendees.
This year’s theme celebrated the whimsical world of Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty. Many club leaders wore themed headbands, and there was a cheerful photo booth set up with a colorful backdrop. Although planning normally starts months in advance, this year’s shift to a student-led model meant they had only weeks to prepare, yet Nguyen was thrilled with the turnout.
“Seeing everyone smile and have fun is the reason I do this,” she noted. The event featured performances, including a lively K-Pop dance routine that had the crowd buzzing.
The food selection was a highlight, with treats such as pandan waffles, Vietnamese iced coffee, and ube cheesecake brownies, thanks to local vendor Girls Gotta Eat Good Asian Bakery. New to this year’s market was the Central Asian Society, led by Malika Arifova, making their debut at a campus event.
“We created this club to foster community among Central Asian students and raise awareness about our rich cultures,” Arifova explained. They sold plov and somsa to showcase authentic flavors from their region. “We wanted people to experience our culture in a tasty way,” she added.
Arifova was thankful for the chance to connect with students through the Night Market, which she believes fosters cultural exchange. “Events like this allow students to learn about different cultures and build a more inclusive community,” she remarked.
Nguyen expressed her appreciation for everyone involved. “It’s a fantastic way to unite our multicultural clubs,” she said. “No matter your background, we’re all here to share in the joy of the Night Market.”
As we look at similar events across campuses, cultural festivals have become increasingly vital for promoting diversity and inclusion. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Students, 78% of students believe that cultural events enhance their college experience. Engaging in these events helps build connections and understanding among diverse student populations.
In conclusion, the Night Market is not just about food and fun; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and collaboration that strengthens ties among students from different backgrounds.
