10 Best Markets in Canberra Where the Locals Love to Shop
Oh, the tales I could tell about my market misadventures in Canberra. A sunny Saturday morning, a slight overestimation of my haggling skills, and a mission to find the perfect birthday gift for a friend who has everything.
Confident and slightly caffeinated, I thought it would be a straightforward in-and-out mission as I hit the markets. I was wrong.
First, a stall wooed me with homemade jams, and then I stumbled upon a vintage clothing stall. Delightful distractions pulled me in every direction.
By the time I remembered my actual mission, I had accumulated way more than planned. Fortunately, my friend ended up loving the quirky collection of market finds I presented.
Let me guide you through the best markets in Canberra, where shopping becomes a delightful adventure. Seek something specific, and you’ll find a myriad of unexpected treasures.
Capital Region Farmers Market
— Media credit: crfarmersmarket
Website: https://capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au/
Address: Exhibition Park in Canberra, Old Well Station Rd, Mitchell ACT 2911
Contact details: +61 400 852 227
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Friday – Closed
- Saturday – 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Cost: $
Capital Region Farmers Market is the sort of place where you can nab some seriously fresh eats and treats, straight from the hands of the growers and makers themselves.
We’re talking vibrant veggies, juicy fruits, homemade pastries that make your mouth water, and all sorts of artisan goodies.
It’s like a treasure trove for your taste buds, and the best part? You’re supporting local farmers and small businesses with every delicious purchase.
Now, when you stroll through the aisles of the market, don’t be shy. Ask the farmers about their produce or products—where they come from, how they’re made, or even snag a recipe. It’s your one-stop opportunity for scoring insider cooking tips and tricks.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to bring your own bags and containers. Not only is this a fantastic move for the environment but it also makes it easier for you to carry around the plethora of goodies you’re bound to buy.
Southside Farmers Market
— Media credit: ssfm_cbr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthsideFarmersMarketCanberra?mibextid
Address: 2 Launceston St, Phillip ACT 2606
Contact details: +61 427 807 801
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – Closed
- Sunday – 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Cost: $
An early morning visit to Southside Farmers Market is like opening the door to a world of fresh produce and artisanal delights. The friendly atmosphere invites you to chat with passionate local farmers and producers eager to share their offerings.
Stall after stall is filled with fresh fruits, vibrant vegetables, gourmet cheeses, and handmade pastries—all waiting to delight your taste buds. Beyond the food, there are beautiful flowers, organic skincare items, and unique crafts that catch your eye.
The relaxed ambiance makes it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a leisurely morning. Be sure to snag specialty items like organic honey and farm-fresh eggs, as they tend to sell out fast!
Pro tip:
Strike up conversations with the vendors. Many of them are not only passionate about their products but also love to share cooking tips, recipe ideas, and fascinating stories about their farms and production processes.
Handmade Market Canberra
— Media credit: handmadecanberra
Website: https://handmadecanberra.com.au/
Address: Exhibition Park in Canberra, Flemington Rd, Mitchell ACT 2602
Contact details: +61 402 247 532
Operating hours:
(Two-day events)
- Saturday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
(Three-day events)
- Friday 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cost: $
If you love unique, handcrafted goods, the Handmade Market is a must-visit! This lively indoor market, held quarterly, is a celebration of creativity with stalls featuring everything from artisan jewelry and stunning art to eco-friendly homewares.
Wandering through the bustling aisles, you’ll be amazed by the variety of one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find in regular stores.
The welcoming makers are always eager to share their stories and the craftsmanship behind their products. You’ll come across exquisite candles, organic skincare products, and even gourmet food stalls offering delightful treats.
Don’t miss the handmade workshops and live demonstrations, where there’s always an opportunity to pick up a new skill or two.
Pro tip:
Come with a game plan for those hard-to-shop-for friends and family unique gifts.
Many stallholders can add a personal touch to their wares, whether it’s a hand-stitched monogram, a custom piece of jewelry, or a specially crafted home decor item.
Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets
— Media credit: fyshwickmarkets
Website: https://www.fyshwickmarkets.com.au/
Address: 36 Mildura St, Fyshwick ACT 2609
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – Closed
- Thursday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Cost: $
If you’re in the mood for some top-notch produce or fancy treats, the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets is your go-to destination. This market is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything you need, such as farm-fresh fruits, veggies, fine cheeses, meats, and more.
As you wander through the market, friendly vendors are always eager to offer samples and share their knowledge about their products.
Vibrant displays of colorful produce, aromatic spices, baked goods, and an impressive array of seafood make every visit a feast for the senses—more than just a shopping trip but an immersive culinary experience.
Plus, don’t miss the fantastic specialty stores scattered throughout. Artisan chocolates, international deli items, and other unique finds make it easy to discover new favorites with every visit.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on the pop-up events and tastings often held at the market. These can range from seasonal produce showcases to chef demonstrations and wine tastings.
Haig Park Village Markets
— Media credit: haigparkvillagemarkets
Website: https://haigparkvillagemarkets.com.au/
Address: Haig Park, Braddon ACT 2612
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – Closed
- Sunday – 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Cost: $
The Haig Park Village Markets is like the city’s pantry, bursting with fresh, seasonal goodies. You’ve got your farmers, foodies, and crafters all lined up, ready to fill your basket with organic artisan bread, gourmet meats, and oh-so-much more.
You’ll find the perfect mix of tasty treats and one-of-a-kind items, all sourced from our local heroes. It’s likely you’ll not just fill your bags but also enrich your spirit!
Beyond mere shopping, the market thrums with a vibrant atmosphere. Whether it’s live performances that catch your ear or workshops that engage your hands and mind, the community’s pulse is palpable here.
Stallholders are your soon-to-be besties, sharing stories behind their crafts and treats. Don’t forget to check out the “What’s On” section to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the fun.
Pro tip:
Engage with the stallholders and ask for their recommendations. These folks are not only passionate about what they do but they also love to share their knowledge about the best option to buy.
Three Sixty Fashion Market
— Media credit: threesixty_style
Website: https://threesixtyfm.com/
Address: 21 Wentworth Avenue Kingston, Canberra
Operating hours: Few times a year – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Cost: $$
If unique and sustainable fashion is what you’re after, the Three Sixty Fashion Market is your kind of place. Far from the usual scramble through clothes racks, this market stands out as a haven of pre-loved apparel bursting with history and character.
As you step into the bustling atmosphere of the market, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of stalls packed with everything from vintage denim to designer labels that have been given a second chance to shine.
Don’t miss the exceptional accessories either—think handbags, shoes, and scarves that can completely transform your look. This market is all about making it easy to discover those standout items that seem tailor-made for your style.
And the atmosphere? It’s electric. The joy of discovering a hidden gem is matched only by the vibrant community vibe. Shopping here means you’re part of a fashion-forward tribe looking to make a statement and reduce waste.
Pro tip:
Dive deep into the backstory of the pieces you’re eyeing. The vendors there usually have a rich history behind their collections, and getting to know the stories can turn your purchases into meaningful treasures.
The Forage Market
— Media credit: theforage
Website: https://www.theforage.com.au/
Address: 88 Lime Kiln Rd, Majura ACT 2609
Operating hours: Few times a year – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Cost: $$
At The Forage Market, Canberra’s street food scene truly springs to life. This vibrant market is a gastronomic playground for those who relish the opportunity to sample a variety of delectable street foods, meticulously chosen from the finest local purveyors.
With an array of options to satisfy sweet tooths, spice enthusiasts, or those who fancy a blend of flavors, there’s a treat for every tastebud.
While the culinary delights undoubtedly take center stage, the market’s atmosphere is equally enchanting. The Forage Market overflows with vitality, harmonized by the sounds of live local music, creating the quintessential setting for a leisurely day out.
Pro tip:
Don’t shy away from asking the vendors for their personal recommendations on food pairings. This can elevate your food-tasting journey to a whole new level.
The Little Burley Market
— Media credit: thelittleburleymarket
Website: https://thelittleburleymarket.com.au/
Address: Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Monday – Closed
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Cost: $
From the moment you arrive at the Little Burley Market, be prepared for an immersive experience that starts with an impressive array of stalls. These stalls feature an eclectic mix of handmade crafts, vintage collectibles, and the freshest local produce.
Tucked among these finds, you’ll discover jewelry that’s been crafted with an artisan’s touch and unique home decor that calls out to anyone seeking that ‘just-right’ item to gift or to grace their space.
The market pulses with an energy that’s infectious, nourished by the warm smiles of vendors and the buzz from shoppers caught in the thrill of the hunt.
Your visit is enlivened by flavor-packed street eats that beckon you to take a taste, melodies from live bands that make your feet tap, and the tranquil lake vistas that paint a serene scene around your bustling market adventure.
Pro tip:
Bring along a reusable container or two. This not only helps in reducing waste but also means you can take home a portion of your delicious finds to enjoy later.
Old Bus Depot Markets
— Media credit: oldbusdepotmarkets
Website: https://obdm.com.au/
Address: 21 Wentworth Ave, Kingston ACT 2604
Contact details: +61 2 6295 3331
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – Closed
- Sunday – 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Cost: $
The Old Bus Depot Markets is a cherished Canberra scene where the talents of local artisans, innovative creators, and dedicated food producers converge under a roof steeped in history.
As you weave through the vibrant stalls, you are on a quest for unique handmade items, the freshest local produce, and that special, irreplaceable find.
The magnetic pull of the market begins with the scents and sights that beckon: freshly baked bread, custom jewelry catching the light, and the textured handwoven textiles that showcase the craftsmanship of local hands.
And for all you collectors out there, keep those eagle eyes out for the unique antique tables – who knows what treasures you’ll unearth. No matter if it’s for your home, your belly, or your Instagram feed, there’s something here that’ll catch your fancy.
Pro tip:
Plan your day around attending one of the market’s workshops or live events. These sessions are often led by skilled artisans and craftspeople who share their expertise in areas like pottery making, candle crafting, or even gourmet cooking.
Hartley Hall Markets
— Media credit: hartley_hallmarkets
Website: https://www.hartley.org.au/markets
Address: Showground, Hall ACT 2618
Contact details: +61 2 6185 1601
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – Closed
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Cost: $
The market is a haven for a wide variety of interests—it features fresh produce, warm baked goods, quirky crafts, and so much more.
It’s a paradise for collectors and a dream for food enthusiasts, all to the backdrop of live music that adds to a vibrant shopping experience.
What sweetens the deal even more? Your simple gold coin at the entrance isn’t just a key to this vibrant gathering; it’s also a helping hand for Hartley Lifecare’s vital disability programs.
So as you meander from stall to stall, finding delights for yourself, take a moment to bask in the glow of doing good—it’s part of the magic that makes your visit here so fulfilling.
Pro tip:
Make a beeline for the local artisans’ booths. These talented folks often take custom orders on the spot, so if you spot a design or craft you like, but it’s not quite perfect, just chat with them.