Craft markets are a beautiful way to experience quintessential Australian culture, soak up some sunshine and discover handmade treasures. Here, we explore some of Australia’s best-known and established markets, as well as some new and secret gems.
Paddington Markets
Sydney’s Paddington Market has been going strong since the early ‘70s, establishing itself as a must-do on any traveller’s itinerary. Each Saturday on the iconic Oxford Street, from 10am to 4pm you can browse goodies from local fashion designers, jewellery makers and artists. When you need a break, you can sit in the sunshine devouring a delicious lunch whilst enjoying the sounds of local musicians. Many of the goods are available exclusively at Paddington Market, and a lot of designers have gone on to become hugely successful – so grab yourself a bargain before they get big!
The Channon Market
A true, Northern Rivers treasure, The Channon Market is nestled in the hinterland near Byron Bay. Just a stone’s throw from the famous hippie town of Nimbin, The Channon Market is a perfect opportunity to soak up the laid-back vibes of Australia’s alternative capital. Weather permitting, the markets are usually held on the second Sunday of each month at the local parkland, and boast an abundance of, often very affordable, local arts and crafts, food and entertainment.
The Original Eumundi Markets
Expect a crowd at The Original Eumundi Markets, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the quaint, Queensland town. The market seems to take over the entire town, with more than 600 stalls. Known as Australia’s premier artisan market, you can discover homewares, toys and everything in between. When your feet tire you can enjoy a massage, chow down on local treats or enjoy one of the many street performers. Expect to spend a little time looking for a car park, especially on the weekend.
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
This Darwin delight is held at the beach overlooking the sunset every Thursday and Sunday from April to October. A true sensory immersion, the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets offers hundreds of stalls selling art, craft, international cuisine and more. It definitely takes the cake for most scenic Australian market, and lends itself to an evening celebration with friends and family. You’ll find all kinds of multicultural goodness, and it’s one of the best places to score traditional Australian art or try some good old Aussie bush tucker.
Daylesford Market
The newly established Daylesford Craft and Food Market promises the best quality local produce and crafts in serene surrounds. These guys are still getting started, so make sure to check in on the website to find out when it’s happening (so far it’s been a Saturday event), but it’s worth a mention as Daylesford continues to establish itself as one of the country’s health and wellbeing meccas. If it’s handmade, home grown or home baked by a local of this gorgeous, historic town, you’ll find it at the Daylesford Market.
Salamanca Market
Known as one of Australia’s most vibrant markets, Salamanca Market has been one of Tasmania’s most popular attractions for more than 45 years now. Held each Saturday, the Hobart, waterfront (almost!) street market boasts more than 300 stalls selling everything from fresh, gourmet produce, clothing and jewellery to garden goodies and more. There’s even a free shuttle bus to take you there! It’s won a tonne of tourism awards, and some people even say it’s Australia’s best – but we’ll let you decide that for yourself.
Jessica Humphries is a writer, yoga teacher and passionate traveller. After studying philosophy and immersing herself in the Sydney corporate world, she threw it all in to become a yoga teacher/writer, relocating to the lazy Northern Rivers to enjoy life. Jess has taken many a travel sabbatical and continues to jet around to scope out the best wellness escapes and yoga goodness, whilst working as a freelance writer, editor, copywriter and yoga teacher. See her own travel blog at www.jesshumphries.com
