dancing in the moonlight

Words by Alorie Gilbert

Visit the Tideland table at Moonlight Market on July 7 and October 6. (Photo: Souk Mousena)

It was the hot ticket in town last summer, and it’s back for a second season. The Moonlight Market at Bainbridge Island’s First Friday Art Walk has returned with its eclectic mix of artisans, food trucks, entertainment and celebratory vibes every first Friday of the month, June through October (plus a bonus date on July 21). Gal pals Lily Karsten and Sarah Wen introduced the market in 2021 on the grassy square that’s also home to the Bainbridge Island Farmers’ Market, and knew they were onto something. “Night markets are popping up all over the country,” says Wen. “We thought it would be a fun addition to Bainbridge.”

Friends for the past 20 years, Wen and Karsten longed to collaborate creatively and create something fun for the community. They met at Wen’s previous local venture, Winslow clothing boutique, Kennedy & Kate. Karsten, a freelance photo stylist, often borrowed clothes from the shop for photo shoots. Moonlight Market reflects the pair’s retail savvy and stylish taste with its unique, rotating mix of vendors and artisans. Sponsored by Arts & Humanities Bainbridge, the market prides itself on being artist-friendly with low fees and easy set-up. “We’re creating a space where artists at all levels can come and thrive,” says Wen.

Back this year are Deejay Hershe, spinning Caribbean-influenced soul and funk beats. Local chef Brendan McGill plans to revive his popular BurgerHaus menu at the market. Artists offering temporary tattoos, spirit animal self-portraits and permanent jewelry (welded in place) will all make appearances, along with the ever-popular cocktail specials.