The Summer Nights Market promotion is "a work in progress," said Ashley Gilmartin, executive director of sponsor Gloucester Main Street Association, with larger crowds—usually 200 people or more—than seen at many of the markets held last summer.

Gilmartin said that six vendors took part at the first market of the season on June 5, with eight vendors selling fresh produce and other items on June 12. As fresh local produce becomes available, Gilmartin predicts that more local vendors will come out to sell their bounty.

The first two markets of the season have been very popular with families, Gilmartin said, with an ice cream social the first week and a kids’ carnival with face painting and a band the next week. The markets are scheduled from 4:30-7 p.m. each Wednesday during June, July and August.

A "Dog Fest" is planned on June 26, with music by Mercy Creek. That Wednesday, dog owners are encouraged to bring their pets on leashes to the market.

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