If you’ve ever dreamed of eating your way around the world, then an event like the Uptown Night Market in West Harlem is your new favorite Thursday plan. This culinary baccanal happens on the 2nd Thursday of each month (April through October). The entrance to this monthly festival is on 12th Avenue at 133rd Street. It’s a delicious, high-energy block party—with over 80 vendors, live music, and enough global flavors to make your passport jealous.
This night market is a full-blown sensory explosion. There’s a DJ pumping out beats, a band jamming on one corner, and someone walking past you with a plate of Polish pierogies in one hand and a Thai noodle bowl in the other. And somehow, it all just works. I also saw many couples gathered so it also doubles as a date spot.
Let’s talk nom noms. There are Mexican empanadas and aguas frescas so fresh you’ll consider texting your ex just to share how good they are. You’ve got Colombian arepas, Coco Bred’s Jamaican sandwich pockets, new to me but yummy, with just the right kick. D’Abruzzi serves up Italian paninos and skewers. The skewers are savory and just light enough that you can have a few without the guilt. Oh, and there is a nice variety of crepes that you can create using the different toppings. —sweet, savory, or both, because my decision-making skills left the building around the time I spotted the Chocolicous NYC booth.
Did I mention it is family-friendly event, as well. This is an alcohol-free event, so you won’t find beer tents or margarita stands—just good vibes and wads of napkins. Large bags are subject to search by the NYPD at the entry point, so maybe leave the weekend luggage at home. But bring ziplock bags for leftovers and takeaway.
Pro tips for survival:
- Show up hungry. Like just ran a marathon hungry.
- Wear stretchy clothes. This is not the time for fashion over function.
- Hydrate. Salt and dancing are a potent combo.
- Don’t wear white. Something will drip. It’s part of the magic.
- Bring a friend to split bites and hold your place in line. This is strategy, not selfishness.
- Did I mention ziplock bags?
The 2025 season kicked off on April 10th and will keep the party going every second Thursday through October. That gives you seven chances to eat your weight in international street food. But don’t.
Final Verdict:
Uptown Night Market is a lot of fun for your stomach and your ears. Eat, dance and then go one more block west for a stroll on the promenade. Come for the food, stay for the vibes.
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