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Annual Hong Kong-inspired market attracts 20,000 visitors a night
Richmond, B.C., Canada (May 11, 2011) - After much anticipation, Richmond's beloved Summer Night Market kicks off Friday, May 13 for another season full of live entertainment, unusual eats and diverse merchandise.
The only of its kind in North America, the bustling Hong Kong-style extravaganza offers endless aisles of both practical and peculiar merchandise: Everything from cheap sunglasses and cell phone accessories to Samurai swords, pet goldfish and paintball gear is on display.
However, the real attraction of the market is its food. Every weekend night, over 60 vendors whip up tasty and oftentimes inventive treats sure to please any palate in a "street food" atmosphere. Craving your standard Asian market fare? Choose from spring rolls, Chow Mein, bubble tea, dim sum and oodles of fresh seafood. Be sure to grab some of the ultra-popular Hurricane Fries, a spiraling deep-fried potato served with your choice of dipping sauce. There's also creative fare like tofu pudding, lobster cakes, dragon beard candy and stuffed waffle cakes.
This weekend's opening will take on an international flair, featuring Spanish guitar, Peruvian flute, and belly dancing performances. In addition, circus buskers will be on hand to dazzle the crowds with awe-inspiring tricks. As the summer progresses, events will include a reptile exhibition, a Canada Day Chinese karaoke night, Korean and Filipino celebrations and a Michael Jackson impersonator. On the main stage, title sponsor Bell Mobility and Times Telecom are giving gamers the chance to turn a competitive streak into cold, hard cash - by playing the popular video game "Angry Birds," participants have a shot at a $20,000 prize awarded at the end of the season. Other giveaways include a mountain bike, electric scooter and airline tickets for Korean Airlines.
20,000 people, locals and tourists alike, visit this multicultural festival nightly. "Every year, world of mouth spreads and more and more people seem to be coming," said Paul Cheung, the Summer Night Market's director of operations. "People are always excited when the market reopens each year. They miss it and they look forward to getting out, doing some shopping and of course sampling all the amazing food!"
Featuring more than 240 vendors, the Summer Night Market returns to the 10-acre site located at 12631 Vulcan Way, behind the Home Depot on Sweden Way. May hours are 7 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays; 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Sundays. Hours are generally extended throughout June, July and August. Visit the website often for updates and for more information on the series of mini-festivals taking place throughout the summer. www.summernightmarket.com. The market closes September 18.
Photos and interviews available upon request
About Tourism Richmond
Tourism Richmond is a non-profit, membership driven destination marketing organization (DMO). The primary mandate of Tourism Richmond is to enhance awareness about the destination through sales and marketing initiatives and by providing excellent visitor and member services. Ultimately, Tourism Richmond's goal is to increase economic activity related to tourism for the City of Richmond and all stakeholders. Tourism Richmond is British Columbia's 4th largest DMO and a former Venue City for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
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