Chinatown Night Markets

Chinatown Night Markets

Catch either of these Asian-style summer night markets for an entertaining dimension to your shopping excursions. One's downtown, the other is slightly further afield.

Chinatown Night Market. Chinatown is at its liveliest when stalls set up shop selling food, T-shirts, and "do I really need this?" bits 'n bobs. It's open from late May to mid-September, 6:30 PM to 11 PM, Friday through Sunday. It's fun to wander. Keefer St., between Columbia and Gore Sts., Chinatown. 604/682-8998.

Richmond Night Market. Much larger than its downtown Vancouver counterpart, this market has become an Asian-style extravaganza of food stalls offering noodle bowls, satay sticks, bubble tea, and vendors selling everything from socks to mops. The market includes carnival rides and games, and runs from 7 PM to about midnight on Friday and Saturday, and from 7 PM to 11 PM on Sunday, from late May to late September. The market grounds are behind the Home Depot store. 12631 Vulcan Way, off Bridgeport Rd. at Sweden Way, Richmond. 604/244-8448.