Lexington Market typically turns its lights down at 6 p.m. But the 232-year-old market is staying open late on Wednesday for a special food-focused event.
Light Up Lexington will pair up market vendors with restaurants like Dooby's, Clementine and Farmstead Grill on Wednesday for an evening of friendly competition and entertainment.
The event is designed to showcase the municipal market's appeal for new audiences, according to Phil Han, the owner of Dooby's in Mount Vernon, who is organizing the first-time event along with the Bromo Tower Arts & Entertainment District and Lexington Market.
"It was really easy to get restaurants involved," said Han. "It really shows how excited the local food community is about the potential of Lexington Market."
Other participating restaurants and eateries include Blue Pit BBQ, Alewife, The Charmery and Hersh's. Participating Lexington Market vendors include Faidley's Seafood, Park's Hamburger, Italian Stallion, Berger's Bakery, Mexican Delight and Station Deli.
Chefs from the participating restaurants and vendors are collaborating on dishes that will be sold from the vendors' regular stalls.
Admission is free. Wine and beer, from Union Craft Brewing and the The Brewer's Art, will be sold at the event. Live music will be performed by DJ Abdu Ali, Brooks Long & The Mad Dog No Good and KERQ.
Guests at the event will vote for their favorite dishes, all of which will be sold for less than $10. Free parking will be available in the lot adjacent to the East Market.