88rising, the pioneering pan-Asian music and media company, has just unveiled its latest celebration of Asian American creativity and community with Night Market Neighborhood, set to take over the GUESS JEANS CAMPUS on November 2 and 3. Following the success of 88rising’s Head in the Clouds Night Market in New York, this West Coast edition promises an even more immersive experience, blending the vibrant atmosphere of Asian night markets with the eclectic spirit of Western flea markets.
A Feast of Food and Drink
Food enthusiasts will find themselves in culinary heaven, as Night Market Neighborhood brings together a curated selection of Asian-inspired vendors. Leading the culinary lineup is A-Sha Foods USA, an AAPI-owned noodle brand showcasing its famous 100-year-old Taiwanese noodle recipe. This festival is not just about food, though; it’s about elevating experiences. Longtime partner Johnnie Walker, the world’s top-selling Scotch whisky brand, will present an exclusive cocktail experience for guests aged 21 and over, with interactive whisky tastings and innovative cocktails.
Shopping and Culture Collide
The Night Market Neighborhood wouldn’t be complete without its pop-up retail experiences. Fans of 88rising’s 88RISING SHOP and GUESS JEANS can look forward to exclusive merch, blending street style with nods to Asian culture. Attendees can also dive into a lineup of Taiwanese-inspired carnival games and take part in Mahjong Mistress’s mahjong games, a favorite pastime hosted by local AAPI community organizers. Visitors are invited to relax at the turf picnic area, where a large outdoor screen will show movies throughout the day, adding another layer of entertainment.
Beyond food and shopping, music and entertainment will infuse every corner of Night Market Neighborhood. Expect live DJ sets, movie screenings, and an ambiance that mixes traditional Asian market vibes with an LA twist. And for the playful at heart, Taiwanese carnival games will offer plenty of chances to win prizes and experience a slice of Taiwan’s street culture.
A Closer Look with Mike Chuthakieo, 88rising’s Chief Revenue Officer
I had the chance to speak with Mike Chuthakieo, Chief Revenue Officer at 88rising, who offered an inside perspective on what this event means for the AAPI community and the unique experience that Night Market Neighborhood promises.
Lorenzo: Mike, you have a seasoned background across various industries, from Pandora to Fox. Now, as CRO at 88rising, what do you see as the impact of Night Market Neighborhood on the AAPI community?
Mike: “It’s amazing to be in a place where we can celebrate Asian creativity and culture, both on a large scale and locally. This event is an opportunity to recognize the AAPI creative class in Los Angeles and spotlight the small businesses that make up this community. It’s great for LA businesses and the AAPI community at large.”
Lorenzo: What inspired the lineup of food, music, and activities?
Mike: “It’s all about collaboration. 88rising is full of creative minds who come together to ensure we have diverse perspectives, which really shows in the variety of our program—from food to retail to entertainment. We want this event to reflect the AAPI community authentically.”
Lorenzo: What part of Night Market Neighborhood are you personally most excited about?
Mike: “Honestly, I’m all about sensory overload! With over 90 vendors, I’ll be making sure to try every single one. But you’ll probably find me at the end of the night in the picnic area, food coma and all.”
Lorenzo: And what about your favorite drink, courtesy of Johnnie Walker?
Mike: “I’m a classic cocktail guy—I love an old fashioned or a whisky sour. Strong, simple, and full of flavor.”
Lorenzo: Looking ahead, what’s your vision for the future of 88rising’s cultural events?
Mike: “We want to uplift the community, and that means having a tangible impact. If our attendees and vendors feel that sense of belonging and celebration, we’ve succeeded. From there, we hope to bring this experience to more communities across the country.”
Immersive Community Vibes
At its heart, Night Market Neighborhood is about fostering connection and offering an authentic cultural celebration for all ages. From meeting friends over a game of mahjong to sampling foods from LA’s best Asian-inspired vendors, this event is a living, breathing celebration of Asian American culture. As 88rising brings their unique approach to Los Angeles, they’re redefining what it means to connect over food, music, and shared cultural pride.
So, whether you’re there to grab some exclusive merch, sip on a Johnnie Walker cocktail, or just soak in the festival vibes, Night Market Neighborhood is a must-attend. It’s more than an event; it’s a milestone for LA’s AAPI community and a showcase of everything 88rising stands for.
For more information about the event, visit 88nmn.com
Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. and 10 a.m.
Location: 2001 E. 15th Street, Los Angeles
Photo credits: Courtesy of 88rising and Lorenzo Dela Rama
