The Joplin Empire Market will be hosting their second night market of the year titled “S’mores and Pours” on Oct. 19 from 7 to 10:30 p.m. in the Empire Market Festival Courtyard.   

 The event will be free to attend with food and goods available for purchase. “We’ll have our bar where we’ll have a couple of our five-dollar signature cocktails … then we’re doing a smores bar. We’re thinking that people will just pay a fiver and get unlimited gourmet smores … so that will cost, but any of the other little activities won’t cost really,” said Ivy Hagedorn, market director.

This night market is the second that the Joplin Empire Market has hosted. The first brought in between 1500 to 1600 people so it’s anticipated to bring in around 2000 people this October, according Hagedorn. 

 “I think the ‘Smore’s and Pours’ night market is going to really encompass the spirit of fall. By having the night markets, we’re increasing awareness of our regular market, while also adding something a little special to Joplin’s night life. It gives the entire community a chance to get together and have fun, while also providing a venue to spotlight local artisans, musicians, breweries and more,” said Naomi Gonzales, co-chair for the event. 

 Though this is only the second of the night markets, there are already plans in the works for hosting a third this year, the next taking place in December. “We’re planning on doing them about once a quarter, now we have another one scheduled for December the 13th, which is a Friday the 13th, and it’s going to be ‘The Night Market Before Christmas’ so we’re gonna be doing like a creepy Christmas thing based on The Nightmare Before Christmas,” said Hagedorn. 

 The Joplin Empire Market is a host to many events throughout the year, most recently was “Pepper Fest” held in conjunction with national farmers market week. In addition to “Pepper Fest,” the market has also hosted a chili cookoff in January, Paris week in February, the Hip Handmade Market in March, a birthday bash in April and more. 

The Joplin Empire Market is a four-season market which services the community with local produce, meats, crafters, artisans and more. The Joplin Empire Market is open year-round every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.