Each 3-day night market event draws up to 100,000 attendees[1] with more than 250 participating food, merchandise, and craft vendors, as well as art and music.

[1][5] The events are known for their large selection of Instagram-friendly foods, ranging from traditional night market snacks found in Asia such as stinky tofu and meat skewers to fusion cuisine such as pho tacos and ramen burgers.

[6][7] Vendors are local artisans and aspiring chefs plus entrepreneurs who already own a restaurant, retail store or food truck, or those who are launching a new product or brand or test-marketing a new concept.

[11] The inaugural market was held in 2012 and drew an unexpectedly large crowd that clogged the streets of Old Town Pasadena, initially drawing negative criticism from attendees and allegations of mismanagement.

[4] DTLA Night Market was held for a limited run next to Staples Center in Downtown Los Angeles in the same year.