Market After Dark returns to Cedar Rapids on Saturday

CEDAR RAPIDS - The popular Market After Dark is back for its third year in the downtown Saturday night.

The event has found its footing and will be better than ever, said Jenn Draper, events planner for the Cedar Rapids Area Economic Alliance, sponsor of the event.

'The second year ran much smoother, and we were able to serve people in a better capacity,” she said.

The first year was so popular that vendors ran out of food and streets were packed.

Organizers responded in the second year by expanding the number of streets and vendors and adjusting the market's time. That led to a more successful and satisfactory event, Draper said, one they aren't adjusting much this year.

'We're really excited to be utilizing the same venue,” she said. 'People will feel like it's familiar.”

Market After Dark runs from 6:30 to 11 p.m. and will feature nearly 100 vendors spread over 12 blocks.

Vendors will be set up along Third and Second avenues SE as well as Second, Third and Fifth streets SE, with the main entertainment stage at Third Street SE and Fourth Avenue SE.

Within that footprint, market-goers will be able to carry beer and wine in specially marked cups. Beverages can be bought at beer tents scattered throughout the market or inside participating bars and restaurants.

Draper said one bit of feedback they've gotten is to make the event more family-friendly so there'll be more yard games in Greene Square this year. Bands and other live entertainment will be found throughout the market, and DJ Matt Rissi will perform in the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art parking lot.

Heading to the market? Here's what you need to know.

Q. Where can I find a map of the market streets?

A. A map and other details are at cedarrapids.org/events/market-after-dark

Q. What's the deal with alcohol?

A. Those over 21 can stop by an ID tent for a wristband and then be served at a beverage tent. Alcohol may be carried outside of bars and restaurants only in specially marked cups and only within the boundaries of the market, during market hours.

Q. What about parking?

A. A parking map is available on the market's website. Free parking is available at Lot 44, at Eighth Avenue and Second Street SE. Parking for $3 to $5 will be available in the ramps - South Side, Five Seasons, Convention Center, Third Avenue, Fourth Avenue and GTC - and in the Paramount lot. Prepaid parking tickets are good through 10 a.m. Sunday.

Q. Can I bring my dog?

A. No.

Q. What will the entertainment be?

A. Bands on the Main Stage are the Brazilian 2wins from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and the Getaway City Band from 9 to 11 p.m. Other performers will be scattered throughout the market.

l Comments: (319) 398-8434; alison.gowans@thegazette.com