The Castro Night Market returns Friday after a successful first year as a monthly event. The event kicks off on Friday, March 20, from 5 to 10 p.m.
The Castro Night Market will maintain its same footprint as last year. 18th Street will be closed from Hartford to Castro streets, and from Castro to Collingwood streets. Castro Street will remain open throughout the evening.
The event will take place every third Friday from March through September — March 20, April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, and September 18.
"This year’s series promises to bring even more fun, blending the neighborhood's historic charm with a high-energy market atmosphere," explains CG Event's co-founder Chris Carrington.
Castro Night Market returns Friday, March 20. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Castro Night Market promises over 30 local exhibitors, dual stages, street food and drinks, and new interactive installations which will "surprise and delight," says Carrington.
Attendees will still be able to enjoy alcoholic beverages on the streets thanks to District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman's legislation creating an Entertainment Zone in the Castro.
“The return of Castro Night Market in 2026 is huge for our local merchants and for the soul of our neighborhood," said Nate Bourg, Castro Merchants president. "It brings the streets to life, introduces new customers to queer-owned and independent businesses, and celebrates the bold, joyful energy that makes our community so iconic."
Sister Roma on stage during Castro Night Market's Pride Month event in June 2025. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
The event is funded by the Civic Joy Fund, co-founded by Manny Yekutiel and Mayor Daniel Lurie, and produced by CG Events co-founders Chris Carrington and Greg Sroda.
This year's Castro Night Market follows the success of the 2025 monthly night market and two preceding events in 2024.
"Activating our streets in this way is about more than just a single night of fun; it’s about creating a consistent heartbeat for the Castro," said Carrington. "By transforming 18th Street into a pedestrian-centered space, we’re driving foot traffic to our brick-and-mortar merchants and providing a platform for local creators."
Mayor Daniel Lurie speaking to the crowd along with Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, Terry Asten Bennett, and Manny Yekutiel. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Similar to last year, during Pride Month in June, the footprint will be expanded one block to Diamond Street.
Additionally, Carrington tells Hoodline that they are working on details for a Halloween event in October like last year. "We're still working on confirming most of the details," said Carrington.
"This season is a commitment to the economic resilience and the continued vibrancy of our neighborhood,” added Carrington.
While the Castro Night Market is free to attend, guests are encouraged to register in advance. Entertainers, vendors, and volunteers are encouraged to apply online.
