BY: Adolf Kaure
The Swakopmund Night Market (SNM) took place at the Swakopmund Hotel and
Entertainment Centre last Friday.
The monthly event included various stalls which offered clothing, clay, jewellery, home
décor, clay as well as food stalls offering sweets, treats, cupcakes, desserts and even vegan
cuisine as well as delicious street food.
The founder and organiser of the event, Danien van Niekerk, described the latest instalment of SNM as the most successful to date.
“We have a record number of people to enter the market for this Swakopmund Night
Market.”
“It is a dream come true to host this market again after two years of not being able to do so at the Swakopmund Hotel.”
“As far as a success of an event is measured, I think we have ticked all the boxes,” said Van
Niekerk.
I was the first time since the outbreak of the global Covid-19 pandemic that the SNM has
taken place at the Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment Centre as the hotel closed during that period due to the impact which the pandemic had on the hospitality industry.
During the period in which Covid-19 prevailed, the event was also held at Tiger Reef, and
this venue will host it on some occasions during 2022.
The recent adjustment to Covid-19 regulations included increasing public gatherings from
500 to 1000 people as well as the wearing of face masks in public arrears no longer being
compulsory. This, she said also contributed to the overall success of the event.
“Everybody happy to be out and about to live life and to be normal humans,” she said.
The event catered for all ages, as a jumping castle and trampolines made sure that children had fun galore.
A Windhoek-based duo known as The Yesterday, performed well-known covers to those in
attendance and created a warm ambience. The lead singer of the duo, Arthur Daka said that he didn’t know about the event and would make sure to attend it on a regular basis.
“The vibe was really cool and everybody was willing to listen to the music. We had people
singing along as well, which is really cool. I love the atmosphere it was perfect.”
Also contributing to the event’s entertainment was Evolve Fire. With effortless ease, Evolve
Fire enthralled the crowd with a fire display, leaving both young and old in awe.
The next edition of the Swakopmund Night Market is scheduled to take place on 16 April at
the same venue. The Swakopmund Night Market has taken place since 2019.
Virtual stalls for the Swakopmund Night Market can be availed through their website:
www.swakopnightmarket.com
