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Lacey Night Market reports growth in year two; city extends Sway contract for 2026
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Summary
City staff and Sway (market operator) reported growth in the 2025 Lacey Night Market: 17 events, about 82 event hours, roughly 57 vendors per event on average, and increased vendor sales (presenter cited over $500,000 in vendor-reported sales). Council agreed to extend the event contract for 2026 and flagged parking and accessibility as top operational challenges.
City staff and the market operator Sway presented a 2025 recap of the Lacey Night Market at the Dec. 16 council meeting and reported metrics staff and the operator described as signs of growth and community engagement.
Wesley Wen (Speaker 11, city staff) introduced Jason (Speaker 12), owner/operator of Sway, who said 2025 marked their second year partnering with the city. Jason reported 17 total market events (82 event hours), an average of about 57 vendors per event at the Lacey Depot, and vendor-reported total sales "just over just over half $1,000,000" across the season (presentation phrasing), with per-event sales approaching $50,000 on average. He said the contract with Sway is being extended for 2026.
Presenters highlighted challenges: recurring vendor and patron parking pressure around the Depot, ground/terrain wear from higher-than-expected attendance, and complaints about wheelchair accessibility at event sites. Sway said it will pursue partnerships with local businesses for overflow parking and will continue to collect vendor and visitor feedback to refine site operations.
Council members thanked staff and operator and encouraged continued attention to accessibility and infrastructure as the event expands. Staff said they will include operational improvements and outreach to potential parking partners in 2026 planning and will monitor economic impacts for local businesses.
