A guide to local markets
Published on 04 November 2024
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Our thriving market scene offers opportunities for local businesses, creators and makers all around our lake to promote, sell and connect with their local community. With over 10 markets in the region operating every month, consumers and stall owners alike will find a sense of community and connection all while discovering unique, quality produce and products.
For Tracey, owner of Amitola Colours, the markets offer more than an opportunity to sell her products. It’s a creative and therapeutic outlet where she has found what she calls her ‘market family’.
“To share my passion with the markets provides me with a great sense of gratitude” she says, “I have met lots of friends along the way through the markets, friendships that will last a long time," she said.
The Homegrown Markets are our largest, held on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month in Speers Point Park. Owners Lauren and Lewis are particularly invested in supporting local, sustainable fare, so every stall is eco-friendly, handmade and locally-produced. With over 120 stalls, you’ll find everything from gifts, artworks and fashion through to homewares and produce. There’s also the Made & Found Markets, located beachside in Redhead, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind vintage and upcycled goods.
Stallholder Ellen Jane, who creates her own artworks, earrings and greeting cards, believes that Lauren and Lewis’ genuine love for small business and community connection is what makes Homegrown Markets feel like a family.
“Personally, I’ve gained a lot. Not just monetary success but also friendships. One of the best parts about attending a market is hanging out with my lovely stall holder neighbours. Everyone is so kind and supportive,” she said.
An initiative of the local business network, the Warners Bay Markets are located right on the foreshore, nestled amongst shops, cafes and shared pathways, making it the perfect spot to meet friends or family for a day by the lake.
The Pelican Foreshore Markets are another staple in Lake Mac, with over 100 stalls to explore offering craft beer, candles, timber work and handmade fashion for all ages. There’s plenty of options for kids as well, with face painting and jumping castles, as well as entertainment.
For those of you with fur babies, most of our markets are pet friendly too – you might even pick up some special dog treats and accessories as you stroll.
While all our markets feature local food, dessert and coffee stalls, if you’re searching for exquisite foodie experiences or produce directly from the farmer, the Lake Mac City Farmers Market is the place to tempt your tastebuds. Here you’ll meet the passionate makers and farmers behind each carefully grown or crafted item, discovering their unique local stories and getting expert tips on how best to cook their gourmet produce.
There’s also the Feast Fest Twilight Food Markets which offer a wonderful excuse to get out of cooking dinner and enjoy a drink or two under the stars, with live music and a selection of cuisines to taste and savour.
The newest addition to choose from is the Shop and Feast Morisset Markets held on the first Saturday of each month at Morisset Showground. Shop and Feast is fun packed with food trucks, family entertainment, live music and market stalls serving up delicious treats from a wide range of cuisines.
And if you still can't get enough, Toronto Lions Club has monthly markets every third Sunday from 7am- 1pm, while the Wyee Markets go ahead every second Saturday of the month at the Wyee Community Hall from 8am-1pm.
Of course, throughout the year you can expect extra special markets for Christmas or the Easter holidays, so be sure to keep an eye out!
Let’s shop and support local.
* Market dates are subject to change without notice
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