Winter Street Jam returns – Emerson & Market take the stage

Following the success of the very first Winter Street Jam, which drew an estimated 500 people to Hastings Street, we’re turning the spotlight to the Emerson & Market Street precinct for the next round of after-dark fun – with even more entertainment in the mix.

This Friday, 15 August 5-8pm, the precinct will come alive with a free, family-friendly night of music, street performances, bites, drinks and late-night shopping. Retailers and galleries will be keeping their doors open well into the evening, with winter specials, one-night only offers, and a chance to explore spots you might not otherwise get the chance to.

The night will feature a live DJ keeping the beats flowing, fiery performances from Fire & Flow, roaming acts including the giant bubble man, appearances from some Hawke’s Bay Hawks players, free face painting (5-7pm), and 30 glow-in-the-dark hula hoops for all ages to enjoy.
Fuel up with treats from food trucks and local favourites, with happy hour deals, and one-night-only treats.

Adding to the atmosphere is that cosy “Euro winter” feel. Glowing shopfronts, live music, street food and people ducking into warm, welcoming spaces between the action.

“Seeing Hastings Street full of people exploring shops, enjoying the music, and just being out in the heart of the city on a winter’s night was exactly what we hoped for,” says Pip Thompson, General Manager of Napier City Business Inc. “Now we’re bringing that same energy to Emerson & Market Streets and with a new line-up of businesses open late and street entertainment, it’s going to have its own unique energy.”

Winter Street Jams are designed as small, street-level activations trialled in compact precincts, encouraging people to reconnect with the CBD after 5pm while giving local businesses opportunities to get involved. 

They are also a chance to explore how late-night trading and evening activations could work longer-term. If successful, they could help pave the way for more regular evening events, helping create a more vibrant city centre year-round.