Building Community Through Art and Culture
In the heart of Spokane’s University District, a unique event unfolds every second Friday from May through October: The Wavy Bunch Night Market & Street Fair. This vibrant gathering transforms 508 E Riverside Ave into a lively hub of creativity, community, and culture. At the helm is Alena Horowitz, an event organizer and founder of The Wavy Bunch, whose vision has turned this market into a staple of Spokane’s cultural scene.
A Vision Rooted in Community
Alena Horowitz’s journey with The Wavy Bunch began in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in 2021. Recognizing a gap in the local arts and entertainment landscape, she sought to create immersive art events that would bring together creators, musicians, and the community. The inaugural event, aptly named “Superstitions NIGHT MARKET & Street Fair,” set the tone for what would become a series of monthly themed markets.
Reflecting on the first event, Horowitz shared, “As the event organizer, it felt like it was all a dream. Making my way around to all the vendors gave me full-body chills and made me teary-eyed from all the appreciation, gratitude, and excitement I received from all around.” 
Horowitz’s dedication to creating meaningful community experiences is evident in every aspect of the market. Her approach combines artistic vision with practical execution, resulting in events that are both engaging and impactful.
What to Expect at the Night Market
Each Wavy Bunch Night Market is a carefully curated experience, featuring over 40 vendors offering a diverse array of goods—from handmade jewelry and vintage clothing to apothecary items and unique art pieces. Live performances, interactive art installations, and a selection of food and beverages enhance the festive atmosphere.
Themes play a central role in shaping each event, encouraging attendees to engage more deeply. Past themes have included “Carnival of Curiosities” and “Galactic Shenanigans,” each bringing its own unique flair and encouraging creative expression among vendors and visitors alike.
Horowitz emphasizes the importance of these themes in fostering community engagement: “Getting together with music, a marketplace, artisans, makers, family, and friends is really just the thing we all need.” 
Commitment to Sustainability and Accessibility
A notable aspect of The Wavy Bunch Night Market is its commitment to sustainability. The market has partnered with Spokane Zero Waste to become the city’s first low-waste, green-certified festival. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to environmental responsibility and community well-being.
To support these efforts and ensure fair compensation for artists and performers, a modest admission fee of $3 for adults has been introduced, while children under 18 can attend for free. This fee directly contributes to the sustainability of the event and the support of local creatives.
Upcoming Events and Participation
The next Wavy Bunch Night Market is scheduled for Friday, May 9, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 508 E Riverside Ave, Spokane, WA 99202. Attendees can look forward to a themed experience filled with art, music, and community spirit.
For more information on upcoming events, vendor applications, and volunteer opportunities, visit thewavybunch.com or follow them on Instagram.
Note: This article is based on information available as of May 2025. For the most current details, please refer to the official Wavy Bunch website and social media channels.