Nightmare Market to return for third iteration in Schenectady

The video above shows NEWS10’s coverage of the first Nightmare Market in October 2024.

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The spooky, scary and bizarre are returning to downtown Schenectady next month. The third-ever Nightmare Market will be held on October 18.

In its largest iteration yet, 90 vendors will line Jay Street, showcasing vintage knick-knacks, unorthodox artwork, horror books and other spooky goods. Spiritual guides, psychics and tarot card readers will also be in attendance.

At 6 p.m., attendees will be able to enjoy a fire performance by Luna Faun Fire, and Starfire Entertainment will kick off an aerialist and juggling performance at 7:30 p.m. If all the spookiness works up an appetite, there will also be plenty of food options available, including themed coffee and boba from Storied Coffee, caramel apples at Bittersweet Candy Co., cocktails at Ambition Coffee & Eatery and more.

The upcoming Nightmare Market comes almost exactly a year after it was first welcomed in Schenectady. Since then, the event, which aims to celebrate all things unconventional and alternative, has expanded into a city staple, even partnering with Proctors Theatre for a Nightmare Expo in January 2026.

October’s Nightmare Market will run from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. along Jay Street Marketplace, and a full list of vendors can be found online. Admission is free and open to both adults and children. Halloween costumes are highly encouraged.