Brady Drake
It feels more like a gathering. A reunion. A space people didn’t realize they needed.
That’s the Asian Night Market, which takes place on Thursday, May 30.
Five years ago, the founders weren’t trying to build one of Fargo’s fastest-growing cultural events. They were just trying to find a connection.
“We were all attending NDSU,” said co-founder Shayna Karuman. “And kind of not as connected as we would have liked to be.”
At the time, there wasn’t a central space for Asian Americans in Fargo–Moorhead. During COVID—and amid rising anti-Asian sentiment—that absence became even more clear.
So they created one.
The first event came together in just a few weeks. A dozen vendors. A few hundred people.
Today, the Night Market is heading into its fifth year with nearly 50 vendors and around 3,000 attendees expected. It’s outgrown its original home and moved to the Fargo Air Museum to keep up.
You’ll find dishes you don’t normally see in Fargo—Filipino, Vietnamese, bubble tea—and artists selling work you won’t find anywhere else. But what stands out most is the interaction.
“It can be really cool to just shake hands with someone and learn what they’re most excited to share about their culture,” Co-Founder Sacred Mauricio said.
From the beginning, organizers kept vendor fees low—around $20–30—making it accessible for first-timers and small businesses. That means side hustles sit alongside established brands, and ideas get tested in front of real crowds.
Some take off. Namaste Chai debuted its food truck concept here. Others leave with new customers, new confidence, or new collaborators.
And the impact goes beyond business.
“We’ve seen people meet at the event and build friendships,” Shayna said.
Volunteers become organizers. Attendees become vendors. It builds on itself year after year.
Despite its growth, the event remains free, family-friendly, and open to everyone. Kids do crafts. Music fills the space. This year, even includes themed activities centered around storytelling.
“It feels like a huge family reunion,” Sacred said.
Location:
Fargo Air Museum
1609 19th Ave N, Fargo, ND
