Watford Market opened its doors after hours last week and welcomed over 600 town centre visitors to its first-ever night event.
Market Lates, which is organised by Watford Borough Council and Market Asset Management, took place on September 3.
With live music from local and national performers including Tom Craven, Sam Winston, Soraya Ray and George Styles, the first Market Lates took place on a Friday night and included street food and drinks between 5.30pm to 10pm, to help bring the Market to life at night.
In its covered outdoor space, food stalls included Caribbean, Asian and Korean street food.
People were able to enjoy the ambience of market dining in the covered casual dining space.
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “The Market Lates event was a big success. It was a great opportunity for people to discover some of the market’s popular traders, whilst enjoying a night out with friends and family.
“The event definitely brought colour and light to the streets of Watford and enhanced the town’s night-time economy.
“Lots of people have been asking me when will this be happening again and I’m really looking forward to attending future events.”
Charlie Smith, who visited Market Lates, said: “A fantastic event and a great way to spend a Friday night. Family friendly with great music, food and drinks from the small businesses of Watford.”
The event supported the local economy by promoting businesses from the area and celebrating “home grown artistic talent”.
It also gave visitors the opportunity to socialize in a different and “more relaxed” market environment, with the opportunity to see some of the improvements that have been made to the area, including new signage and planting, communal seating areas and some new traders.
Future events will be held throughout the year and will be advertised on the council’s and market social media channels and website.
For more information visit www.watfordmarket.co.uk
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