Everything You Need to Know for the 2019 Market After Dark

It's about to be a BIG weekend here in Downtown Cedar Rapids! The 2019 Market After Dark is happening throughout Downtown Cedar Rapids, and things are going to be even bigger and better than ever. The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that around 40,000 people attended last year's event, so I can only imagine how many people will be drawn to the area this year!

The Market will be taking over 1st Avenue to 4th Avenue from 1st Street SE to 6th Street SE, taking over more of downtown than the normal farmers' markets. It will run from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., but the streets will close to traffic beginning at noon on Saturday, so make sure your car isn't parked within the market zone!

And speaking of parking, it will cost $5 to park in one of the open ramps, with street parking free outside of the market area. There is also an Uber pick-up and drop-off point if you're choosing to travel that way. That's located at 1st Street and 2nd Avenue.

There are a few rules for the Market After Dark that you need to abide by. First of all, you can't bring own alcoholic beverages, you must purchase them at the event. People consuming alcohol will need to be wearing a wristband. The official souvenir cups will cost you $6 (your first drink IS included), and you can pick those up at the various beer stations set up throughout downtown or at a participating restaurant. You should also be aware that the beer stations on the street are cash only. The cut-off time is 10:30 p.m. and all refills are $5.

If you were planning to bring a dog with you, don't. No pets are allowed at the Market After Dark.

There will be around 100 vendors at this year's event, and that's on top of all of the participating businesses. Entertainment will be in no short supply, either. The main stage is located on 4th Avenue and 5th Street SE, but there are other stages and activities throughout the area. Some of those activities include a light mural, a balloon garden, a giant Lite Brite, yard games, and a bubble alley. Oh, and did we mention admission is FREE?!

For more information on this year's Market After Dark, including participating businesses, a list of vendors, and a map, you can visit their website HERE. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow night!

[Via Cedar Rapids Gazette/Market After Dark]