Markets are great places to spend time relaxing with friends and family, especially the best summer markets around the country. They’re also a great place to spend money, boosting the small business owners that bring value and a vibe to these awesome environments.
With the local scene working tirelessly to bounce back from a prolonged lockdown, and overcome new economic challenges, supporting local entrepreneurs has never been more important. But it isn’t the only reason to embrace SA’s vibrant market culture, here are a few more:
- They’re family friendly (and often dog-friendly too).
- Many markets sell fresh produce from local farms for delicious (and sustainable) home cooking.
- The wide range of drinks, eats and treats ensures that everyone can find something that hits the spot.
- Live entertainment is a feature at many markets.
- The unique clothing, crafts and collectables make markets a great place to do some gift shopping.
Here’s a quick list of our best summer markets across SA, that are well worth checking out this festive season – and beyond.
Durban markets
Shongweni Farmers Market
WHERE
457 Mr551 Rd, Shongweni Resource Reserve, Shongweni, 3650.
WHEN
Every Saturday from 6:30am – 12:30pm.
SPECIAL SUMMER EVENTS
Christmas Market: 5, 12 & 19 December from 6:30am – 1pm
16 & 20 December from 6:30am-2pm
The market is honored to be hosting Santa Claus this year (unfortunately no hugs or lap-sitting), with presents and a special kids Christmas play area too.
WHY
What began with 12 humble vendors in 1998 has become a 150-stall institution. With the goal of helping people buy local, the Shongweni Farmers Market is a wonderful collection of fresh produce, ready-made foods, decor, furniture, pet products, nursery, jewellery and craft goods. It attracts fans from all over KZN each and every weekend. With spectacular views and a nature trail, it’s the perfect spot for families – and furry friends are welcome too.
COVID PRECAUTIONS
The market is fully outdoors; there are 30 sanitizing stations; up to 8 guards posted at all entrances with spray sanitizers; strict enforcement of the wearing of masks and social distancing – masks may only be lowered to eat and drink only and comprehensive signage reminding all guests of protocols; all tables and seating distanced 1.5m apart (at least).
I Heart Market
WHERE
The Hay Store, Albert Terrace & Camperdown Road, Point, Durban, 4001
WHEN
Unfortunately, the I Heart Market has announced its closure for December 2020, but we have faith that they will soon be back!
Usually, they are open from 9am – 2pm on the first Saturday of every month.
WHY
Durban’s I Heart Market is a true community affair. Everything sold must be local, creating a unique platform for Durban-based artists, artisans, creatives and entrepreneurs. With plenty of open space and outdoor seating, the self-styled anti-mall is a fantastic place to be.
Johannesburg markets
Bryanston Organic Market
WHERE
40 Culross Rd, Bryanston, Sandton, 2191.
WHEN
Thursdays and Saturdays from 9am – 3pm.
SPECIAL SUMMER EVENTS
Christmas Markets: 15-18 December, 3pm-7pm
Childrens’ Christmas theater: 15-18 December, 4pm-5:40pm
WHY
A staunch supporter of conscious and sustainable living, this market is a must-visit for anyone passionate about the environment. On top of the amazing food and fresh produce, it’s also famous for art, clothing, curios and children’s toys and events. Friendly dogs on leads are also welcome.
COVID PRECAUTIONS
The market is outdoors and there are plenty sanitising stations to go around. All stall operators must have sanitiser at hand and wear masks.
Fourways Farmers’ Market
WHERE
Taroko Farm (Modderfontein Reserve), Norfolk Lane, Klipfontein 12-Ir, Lethabong 1609
WHEN
Saturdays Farmers Market 8am-4pm
Sunday Artisan Food and Craft Market 8am-5pm
SPECIAL SUMMER EVENTS
Christmas Markets:
Friday 11 & 18 December, 3pm-9pm
Saturday 12 & 19 December, 8am-9pm
Sunday 13 & 20 December, 8am-5pm
WHY
Located in the beautiful Modderfontein Nature Reserve, this beautiful venue is home to 200 stalls. Stocked with everything local, artisanal and delicious, the 265-hectare private park with a lake view will take your breath away. Live music and a sprawling playground for the kids tops off a wonderful experience for people (and pets) of all ages.
COVID PRECAUTIONS
The spacious outdoor venue means social distancing and fresh air are in endless supply. Sanitizing stations at all entrances and dotted around the venue make it easy to follow hygiene best practices.
Cape Town markets
Oranjezicht City Farmers Market
WHERE
Granger Bay Blvd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8051.
WHEN
Saturdays from 8:15am – 2pm and Sundays from 9am – 2pm.
WHY
The iconic backdrop of Granger Bay is reason enough to pop into this independent farmer’s market, but the food, fashion and fresh produce make it an absolute must-visit. A community-driven, down-to-earth atmosphere adds heart and soul to the experience. Dogs on leashes that are good with kids and other dogs are always welcome.
COVID PRECAUTIONS
The OZCF team is on hand at all times to manage the flow and spacing of shoppers; seating areas are distanced and limited; strict adherence to hygiene protocols like wearing masks (except when eating or drinking), and no touching of fresh produce unless being purchased; several hand washing and sanitizing stations available throughout the venue; cashless payments are encouraged.
The Bay Harbour Market
WHERE
31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
WHEN
Fridays 5pm – 9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 9:30am – 4pm
WHY
A true celebration of South African culture, diversity and creativity, situated inside an old fish factory overlooking the sea and Chapmans Peak in Hout Bay. This year, they’ve made shopping for festive spoils even easier with their newly launched gift vouchers. Purchase one from the Bay Harbour Market website and the lucky recipient will have the entire market to choose something special from.
COVID PRECAUTIONS
On arrival guest temperatures are checked, with a hand sanitiser station; masks are compulsory (removed when eating and drinking only); 5 sanitiser stations inside the market and traders have sanitiser available at their stalls; Social distancing reminders are on the communal tables, which get sanitised continuously during operating hours; footfall is closely monitored to ensure social distancing is maintained.
Cape Point Vineyards Community Market
WHERE
Cape Point Vineyards Estate, Silvermine Road, Noordhoek
WHEN
Thursdays 4:30pm – 8:30pm
WHY
The perfect mid-week outing, with incredible panoramic lake, mountain, vineyard, and sea views (no kidding). The lush rolling lawns offer plenty of room to lounge, pic-nic, and play, with gourmet delicacies that complement arguably the most epic sundowners spot in Cape Town.
COVID PRECAUTIONS
The market has been limited to 500 visitors (grab your spot and book online); all vendors are set up outside (the indoor venue has been closed); guests will have their temperatures checked and be offered sanitizers upon entering; sanitizing stations will be widely available throughout the venue.
Chilled Market at the Range
WHERE
The Range venue, Orpen Road, Tokai, Cape Town
WHEN
Fridays 4:30pm-9:30pm and Saturdays 9am-3pm
WHY
Situated at the foot of the Constantiaberg Mountains, and surrounded by vineyards and pine forests, this market feeds both your body and mind. There is plenty of entertainment for kids, and a buzzing live music lineup in their grand and spacious marquees. The food and drink stalls are varied and eclectic, offering something to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
COVID PRECAUTIONS
The range boasts ample outdoor and well-ventilated indoor spaces; all guest temperatures are checked and provided with sanitizer on arrival; 10 sanitizing stations are placed throughout the venue; perspex shields are in place at the bar with extra 4 dedicated sanitizing stations; guest seating is spaced 1.5m apart; all vendors wear masks and have sanitizers at their stall.
