Oakmont night markets to mark third straight summer season

A popular summer shopping and networking event in Oakmont is returning for its third straight season.

Night markets are scheduled for 5 to 9 p.m. June 9, July 14 and Aug. 11.

They are presented by the Oakmont Chamber of Commerce. More than 40 vendors are expected to participate each night.

Activities take place along Allegheny River Boulevard between Delaware and Pennsylvania avenues, an additional block compared with previous markets.

Chamber director Karen DeTurck said they added space to handle the influx of participants. There were about 25 vendors in 2022.

“We were really lucky last year that we had good weather for all three night markets. I think that helped bring the people out,” DeTurck said.

“I think people were ready to get out after being cooped up. The word is traveling about our night markets. We’re getting more and more people.”

People can find everything from jewelry, candles, woodworking, adult beverages and healthy smoothies to things for pets and plants at the market. There also will be live music and other activities along the boulevard.

Oakmont Candle Works debuted its fall scents — including warm apple pie, butterscotch and various pumpkin incarnations — at last August’s event. It will showcase its red, white and blue line of dyed and layered candles at this year’s opening market. Scents come in warm apple pie or citronella, which is said to ward off bugs.

“I love the whole vibe of it,” candle shop owner Tabatha Flanick said. “Everybody’s out. They’re having fun. They’re enjoying walking the boulevard. All the shops, all the vendors are having fun. The kids are out. It’s a nice vibe to be outside, having everybody enjoying themselves. The markets are my favorite time.”

Flanick’s tent will be located near the Oakmont Olive Oil Co.

Other participating vendors include Still Mill Distillery, Bygone Wines, Bentley’s Doggie Bistro, Oakmont Embroidery, The Peddler, Potted, Color Street and Elliot Lane Handmade Jewelry.

Flanick said networking among shop owners at the market is just as fun as mingling with customers.

“We are all in it together, whether you are selling candles or earrings or wine,” she said. “We all get it. We all work together. I never met anybody that found other people as a competitor. We’re all there to show our products, enjoy the town (and) enjoy the people. Everybody supports each other, and that’s what it’s all about.”

Vendors can still sign up for the markets.

Businesses and service providers also can acquire chamber memberships at $225 for the year.

Memberships include free participation in chamber events. However, night markets are limited to those selling products and not just services.

For details, call the chamber at 412-828-3238 or email info@oakmont-pa.com.