Pasar Kaget di Berastagi Kabupaten Karo (1997-2016)

Abstract

This research discusses the background to the emergence of the Berastagi Pop up Market in 1997, analyzes its development until 2016, and explains the market's role in supporting the local economy. This study uses a historical method with a qualitative descriptive approach through document studies, observations, and interviews with vendors, visitors, and related parties. The results show that the Berastagi Surprise Market grew from the community's practical need for warm food at night, then developed into a night culinary space through the creativity, solidarity, and collective work of residents. In the early days, the types of culinary offerings were still simple, such as grilled chicken, grilled fish, fried noodles, and fried rice, but gradually developed into a more diverse culinary offering. The number of vendors increased significantly from fifteen vendors at the beginning to around forty to forty-five vendors in 2016. This market plays a significant role in supporting the economy of the vendors' families and creating a chain economic effect for the surrounding community. In addition, the Berastagi Surprise Market serves as a space for social interaction between local residents and tourists, although its presence also causes social impacts such as disturbances, minor traffic jams, cooking fumes, and environmental hygiene issues.