When it’s springtime in Melbourne, Australia, there’s really no better way to spend a day than outside. Balmy weather, colourful blooms, and friendly people make the city an even more pleasant place to explore. Spring markets are a specially fun draw during the season, with outdoor stalls offering everything from local produce and exotic street food to fashion items and pretty knick-knacks. Even for visitors who aren’t exactly shopaholics, a trip to these vibrant markets is a must-try. Tasty food, unique souvenirs, and even the occasional live music—what more could you want? So, grab a reusable bag and head on out to wander through the best spring markets in Melbourne this season.
Finders Keepers
Since Finders Keepers was established in 2008, the event has blossomed into Australia’s largest curated marketplace for mindful artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. With a variety of art, food, jewellery, homeware, and more, the three-day event is an excellent opportunity to hunt down novelty items and support small local businesses. Entry tickets are $5 each.
Due to the COVID pandemic, Finders Keepers is going cashless in 2021. Make sure you bring debit cards, credit cards, or digital payments devices for purchases. Tickets must be bought online before entry. Social distancing and hand sanitizing are highly encouraged. General seating and lounge areas will no longer be available, but café seating is provided.
When: September 24-26, 2021
Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Exhibition Bays 17-20, South Wharf
Website: https://www.thefinderskeepers.com, Facebook
The District Makers Market
Held on the last Sunday of every month, The District Makers Market is a great opportunity to shop ‘til you drop. Open-air venue The District Docklands will be filled with stalls featuring a vibrant range of clothes, jewellery, homewares, arts and crafts, and artisanal produce. Take the whole family and make a day out of it! Shoppers can even bring their pets along and visit stalls selling treats, pet clothes, and accessories.
Lockdown restrictions in Victoria led to the cancellation of the last few market days, so make sure you don’t miss the next one. Safe social distancing and regular hand sanitizing are highly encouraged on the District grounds.
When: September 26, October 31, and November 28, 2021
Where: The District Docklands, 440 Docklands Drive, Docklands
Website: https://www.thedistrictdocklands.com.au/events/the-district-makers-market-4, Facebook
Big Design Market
More than 200 independent designers converge at the annual Big Design Market as spring winds down to a close in time for the holidays. It’s the perfect three-day event for Christmas shoppers with all sorts of goodies on sale, including children’s items, homewares, ceramics, clothes, accessories, tech products, and other lifestyle products. With events in both Sydney and Melbourne, Big Design Market is a great opportunity to score great deals on products from Australian and international designers. Admission is $5. Kids 12 years and under may enter for free.
When: December 10-12, 2021
Where: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, 1 Convention Centre PI, South Wharf
Website: https://melbourne.thebigdesignmarket.com, Facebook
Heide Market
A collaboration between the Heide Museum of Modern Art and The Rose St. Artists’ Market, Heide Market is always a great stop in Melbourne. The shopping event is held every second Saturday of each month at the picturesque gardens of the museum’s sculpture park, making your next market day more Instagram-worthy than ever. Visit the Heide Market to scour for art, design, and handcrafted goods.
Hand sanitiser is available at the venue, and regular sanitation is encouraged. Social distancing rules apply and visitors are asked to stay 1.5 meters away from other market-goers and vendors.
When: September 11, October 9, November 13, and December 11, 2021
Where: Heide Museum of Modern Art, 7 Templestowe Rd, Bulleen
Website: https://www.heidemarket.com, Facebook, Instagram
When you’ve hit the top spring markets in Melbourne and you’re ready to explore more of the city, visit KKday for more travel and adventure ideas. From wine tours to skydiving, there’s definitely something in Melbourne for every traveler.
Featured photo via Sam Lion on Pexels
