Tarentum Night Market organizers to go forward with Thursday event despite covid advisory

Organizers of Tarentum’s new Night Market plan to proceed with the monthly event Thursday evening, despite Allegheny County health officials advising residents to stay home except for essential activities because of the surging covid-19 pandemic.

Started in September, the idea behind the market is for borough businesses to remain open from 5 to 8 p.m. one Thursday a month to attract shoppers to the business district, including those who can’t get to stores when they close earlier. It has also included artists and crafters set up in The Murphy Building on Corbet Street, food trucks and outdoor music.

Organizers estimated attendance at 350 people in September, and close to 400 for the second event in October.

David Rankin, executive director of Faith Community Partners and an organizer of the Night Market, said business owners they’ve spoken with have said they will be staying open regardless of their decision.

“We are going to proceed,” Rankin said Thursday morning. “We are posting an announcement on Facebook explaining that, but encouraging people to be safe.”

The post said that while organizers understand the concern about rising cases of covid-19, they “don’t feel that we can effectively cancel at this late hour. We will go on with our plans for tonight being extra careful with masks, sanitizing and distancing.

“Please, if you are uncomfortable, stay safe and stay home,” the post said.

Brian DeFelices, owner of the newly renovated Manos Gallery, the former Manos Theater, on East Fifth Avenue said he still plans to open the art gallery for the first time during the market Thursday night. He said no more than 25 people will be allowed in the gallery at a time and those who go inside will be required to wear masks.

The December Night Market, scheduled for Dec. 10, is on hold.

Organizers previously said they intend to continue the event in 2021, with the Night Markets resuming on April 15.

Dr. Debra Bogen, director of the Allegheny County Health Department, issued a countywide stay-at-home advisory on Wednesday to bring down the spread of covid-19. She warned that an order could come if the number of cases continues to rise.