Canberra is home to a lot of fantastic markets, each offering something unique. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, these markets showcase the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these markets is a great way to spend your weekend. Here are nine markets in Canberra worth visiting.
Old Bus Depot Markets – Kingston
The Old Bus Depot Markets are an absolute Canberra classic. They first opened in 1994 in a converted bus depot in Kingston, next to Canberra Glassworks, and have become a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. They’re even in the Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame!
The markets are expansive, with over 200 stalls. The fresh food stalls have an array of organic fruits and veggies, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, pastries, and gourmet treats. You can buy local honey, handmade chocolates, and organic produce. Many vendors specialise in gluten-free and vegan options, catering to all dietary needs. I also highly recommend exploring the gourmet food hall and grabbing a bit to eat- Fekerte’s Ethiopian Cuisine is my personal favourite.
The craft stalls are a delight, with handmade jewellery, clothing, and homewares. Local artists display their paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. There are also stalls with unique gifts, like hand-poured candles, natural skincare products, and vintage collectibles. If you’re looking for a special gift, the Old Bus Depot Markets are the place to find it!
As well as food and crafts, there are stalls selling books, records, and antiques. For fashion lovers, there are also some fantastic stalls selling vintage clothing and accessories.
There’s one more thing I love about the Bus Depot Markets: they’re pet-friendly! Take your pup to Cheeky Mutts on the ground floor for an all-natural, Australian-made treat.
The markets are open every Sunday from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. They often host special events, such as themed markets, live music, and holiday celebrations. The atmosphere is lively, with buskers providing entertainment and food trucks serving delicious meals and snacks.
Capital Region Farmers Market – EPIC
The Capital Region Farmers Market was created in 2004 by the Rotary Club of Hall to support Aussie farmers and local producers by providing a place for them to sell their produce directly to the public. It has since grown into a bustling market, attracting over 6,000 visitors each week.
The market is open every Saturday from 7:30 am to 11:30 am at Exhibition Park in Canberra. You can find a wide variety of the best local produce available from over 100 different stall holders. Farmers from the region sell seasonal fruits and vegetables, including apples, berries, leafy greens, and root vegetables. You can also find free-range eggs, grass-fed meats, and fresh seafood.
The Capital Region Farmers Market has gained a reputation for its high-quality products at affordable prices, especially as grocery prices continue to rise. Many stalls offer organic produce, and you can buy directly from the growers, ensuring your food is the freshest it can get!
They have more to offer than just food: There are stalls selling freshly cut flowers, potted plants, and herbs. You can buy handmade soaps, beeswax candles, and other natural products. Local winemakers offer tastings and sell their wines, while brewers and distillers showcase their craft beers and spirits.
The market has a friendly, community atmosphere. Live music and cooking demonstrations often add to the vibrant environment. The Capital Region Farmers Market is a great place to do your weekly shopping, meet the producers, and learn more about where your food comes from!
Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets
The Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets are Canberra’s oldest markets, having first opened in 1967. They’re one of my favourite places to peruse leisurely on the weekend, and despite how frequently I visit, I still feel like there’s more to eat, see and buy.
The majority of stalls are dedicated to selling fresh produce, including fruit and vegetables, meats, seafood, delicatessens, and bakery products. I go crazy for the delicatessens—you can find a lot of European products, like sweets and cheese, that aren’t available anywhere else in Canberra. There are also a variety of restaurants and cafes selling everything from dumplings to Turkish food and gourmet pizza. LL Bakery and Cafe has some of the best pho in town. Read our review if you’re not convinced!
Aside from food, they have the ‘Niche Markets’, a wing dedicated to gifts, homewares, flowers and clothing from Canberra artisans and designers. There are stalls with natural skincare products, handmade soaps, and eco-friendly household items. The Niche Markets wing is also home to Book Lovers Lane, where you can get a taste of the semi-annual Lifeline Bookfair any day of the week
Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, gourmet foods, or unique products, the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets are worth a visit. It’s a great place to support local businesses and enjoy some of the best food Canberra has to offer.
Haig Park Village Markets – Braddon
The Haig Park Village Markets are a newer addition to Canberra’s market scene, having only opened in 2019. Located in the leafy Haig Park in Braddon, these markets are known for their relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
The markets are open every Sunday from 8:00am to 2:00pm. They offer a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, artisan foods, and unique handmade items. Local farmers sell seasonal fruits and vegetables, while other stalls sell fresh bread, pastries, and cakes. You can also find gourmet cheeses, deli meats, and a selection of sauces and condiments.
One of the highlights of the Haig Park Village Markets is the range of handmade crafts. You can find jewellery, clothing, and homewares made by local artisans. There are also stalls selling natural skincare products, candles, and eco-friendly items.
The Haig Park Village Markets often feature live music and entertainment, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Food trucks and stalls serve a range of delicious meals and snacks. You can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee or a bite to eat while you browse the stalls.
The markets are dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along. There are plenty of grassy areas to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The Haig Park Village Markets offer a great way to spend a Sunday morning, supporting local businesses and enjoying the best of Canberra’s local produce and crafts.
The Handmade Canberra Markets – EPIC
The Handmade Markets in Canberra began in 2008. Initially, the market had just 35 stalls but quickly became a hit, drawing thousands of shoppers each time. Today, the markets are held quarterly at Exhibition Park and feature over 260 stalls, making them one of Australia’s largest indoor markets. It’s also the only market in Canberra certified by the Australian Made Campaign, ensuring all products are Australian-made.
The Handmade Markets are known for their excellently curated range of high-quality, Australian-made products. You can explore a variety of fashion items, including unique clothing, accessories, and jewellery crafted by local designers. You can find everything from artisanal leather products to bespoke dresses and hand-knitted scarves. For home décor enthusiasts, there are handmade ceramics, wooden furniture, custom artwork, and eco-friendly wares like reusable household items and natural cleaning supplies.
Food is a major attraction at the Handmade Markets. Gourmet food stalls offer a range of delicious items, including artisan chocolates, freshly baked goods, and homemade jams and preserves. You can also find a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet condiments. Many of the food products are made with local ingredients, ensuring high quality and freshness.
Aside from just shopping, the Handmade Markets provide an opportunity to meet the stallholders and learn about their craft. There’s something really refreshing about meeting the faces behind what you consume. I also love that these markets understand that events like these can be overwhelming for some. To counteract this, the market also has a Low Sensory Shopping Hour on Sunday mornings from 9am to 10am, providing a quieter shopping experience for those who need it.
The next Handmade Market will be held from 29-30 June, 2024.
Happy Eating, Shopping, And Meandering!
Canberra’s markets offer a wonderful variety of experiences, from fresh produce to unique handmade crafts. Each market has its own charm and specialties, making them all worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, delicious food, or a fun day out, there’s something for everyone. Have you explored all the markets in Canberra yet? Which one is your favourite?
If you’re looking to do even more shopping this weekend and support some local businesses, check out our list of the best secondhand stores in Canberra.