Cardiff’s historic Central Market is set to undergo a show-stopping transformation, morphing into a music-filled destination as a key part of the Cardiff Music City Festival. For three special evenings during the Sŵn Festival weekend (Thursday October 16th – Saturday October 18th), this beloved, free and open-to-all night market will bring a fresh buzz to the city centre.
The Grade II listed Victorian market will swing its doors open after usual hours, welcoming visitors into a unique cultural mash-up of music, food and art. This event is designed to create a flowing, festival atmosphere, inviting Sŵn Festival attendees and curious onlookers to dip in and out of the various Music City events happening across town.
At the heart of the experience is a specially commissioned lighting installation from local designers Neon Black. Known for their creative involvement in the visual spectacle of The Sphere in Las Vegas, their immersive lighting design will dramatically reimagine the market’s classic architecture, turning the space into a glowing beacon of creativity and celebration.
Adding to the sonic landscape, Radio Sudd, Wales’ new bilingual alternative radio station, will be broadcasting live daily from a pop-up station on the ground floor. The music won’t stop there. A selection of Radio Sudd and guest DJs will spin the best in alternative, underground and global sounds from a booth on the balcony, right near the legendary Kelly’s Records. The full DJ line-up will be announced on the Radio Sudd Breakfast Show on Wednesday, October 8th.
The night market is also a feast for the tastebuds. The market’s eclectic collection of independent food vendors are staying open late, serving up their signature dishes. You’ll be spoilt for choice with market favourites like Dirty Gnocchi, The Bearded Taco, Ffwrnes Pizza and The Real Ting offering everything from street food classics to global flavours.
“This is about opening up one of Cardiff’s most loved spaces to the city in a new way,” said Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Events, Cllr Jennifer Burke. “We want people to experience the market as they’ve never seen it before, lit up, buzzing with music and full of life. It’s a chance to celebrate Cardiff’s creative energy and the incredible talent that makes this city sing.”
The night market is a central pillar of the wider Cardiff Music City Festival programme, which is supported by Welsh Government and Cardiff Council. The festival aims to showcase the city’s thriving music scene, support local artists and create unforgettable experiences for both residents and visitors.
Whether you’re heading to a gig, grabbing a late-night bite, doing a spot of shopping, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, the Cardiff Market night market offers a free, welcoming space to enjoy the best of the city’s music and culture.
To find out more about the Cardiff Music City Festival, visit: https://cardiffmusiccity.wales/
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