Chicago Entrepreneurs to Host Night Market for Charity

Let's Talk Womxn will host a breast cancer awareness night market pop-up at the restaurant Thattu on October 19, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Food and Drink

Bold vector illustration of diverse food plates on a wooden market stall, representing a community-based charity event. — The Let's Talk Womxn coalition will host a breast cancer awareness night market at Thattu in Chicago on October 19, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Members of the Let's Talk Womxn coalition will gather at Thattu in Avondale on October 19, 2026, for a night market pop-up event supporting breast cancer awareness. Proceeds from the evening will be donated to the American Cancer Society.

Why it matters

The event is organized by Kathy Vega Hardy to promote breast cancer awareness following her own recent surgery and recovery. It provides a platform for women-owned food businesses to collaborate on a charitable cause.

The Let's Talk Womxn coalition includes 100 members across 16 cities. Happy hour cocktails at the event are priced at $12.

The players

Let's Talk Womxn

This is a collaborative coalition that supports women entrepreneurs within the food and beverage industry.

Thattu

Thattu is a restaurant located in the Avondale neighborhood of Chicago that serves as the host venue for this event.

Kathy Vega Hardy

She is a member of Let's Talk Womxn who organized the upcoming pop-up event to support breast cancer awareness.

American Cancer Society

This nationwide voluntary health organization is dedicated to eliminating cancer through research, education, and advocacy.

The details

Chefs will serve food from individual stations throughout the dining room at 2601 W. Fletcher. The menu features a diverse selection including vegan Italian bites, Vietnamese rice cakes, and Filipino-style BBQ cheeseburgers.

October 19, 2026: Let's Talk Womxn night market pop-up occurs
5 PM: Bartender begins serving happy hour cocktails
6 PM: Vendors begin taking orders

Industry Dynamics

This event aligns with the broader rise of female-led culinary coalitions leveraging collective resources for community impact. It reflects a growing industry trend where independent restaurant owners prioritize social advocacy alongside their business operations.

Attendees can access the market starting at 5 PM for cocktails and 6 PM for food service. All participants contribute directly to the American Cancer Society through their purchases at the various vendor stations.

The takeaway

This event demonstrates how local business owners can utilize their professional networks to drive significant charitable contributions. Residents are encouraged to arrive early to participate in the full range of vendors and happy hour offerings.