Top-Notch Flea, Handicraft, and Agricultural Markets Across Rural Victoria
Embark on a journey through Victoria's vibrant regional markets, where you'll find fresh produce, unique handmade crafts, and a lively atmosphere. Here's a roundup of some must-visit markets across the region.
Dandenong Trash & Treasure Market Located at 115 South Gippsland Highway, Dandenong South, this bustling market takes place every Sunday from 8am-2pm. A popular destination for visitors from Gippsland and the Yarra Valley, the Dandenong Trash & Treasure Market offers a mix of vintage finds, second-hand treasures, and collectibles.
Gisborne Old Time Market Nestled in the picturesque Macedon Ranges, the historic town of Gisborne plays host to the Gisborne Old Time Market. Held on the first Sunday of each month (Feb-Dec) from 9am-2pm, this market showcases local makers and artists, offering clothing, accessories, jewellery, artisanal jams, produce, handmade crafts, and more.
Ballarat Vintage & Collectables Market Open daily from 10am-6pm (closed Christmas Day) at 9367B National Highway, Warrenheip, the Ballarat Vintage & Collectables Market is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts.
Bendigo Showgrounds Market One of the largest flea markets in Victoria, the Bendigo Showgrounds Market takes place every Sunday from 8.30am-2pm (excluding major events on at the showgrounds). Located at Prince of Wales Showgrounds, Holmes Road, Bendigo, this market offers a diverse range of stalls selling everything from vintage furniture to collectibles.
Bright Market: Make It, Bake It, Grow It Set beside the Ovens River and surrounded by alpine scenery, the Bright Market: Make It, Bake It, Grow It takes place on the third Saturday of the month from 8.30am-12.30pm. This market offers hand-carved wooden toys, locally grown herbs, upcycled fashion, and local wines, fresh produce, sustainable honey, jams, and cheeses.
Port Fairy Community Market A coastal gem, the Port Fairy Community Market offers handcrafted goods such as hand-dyed textiles, beach-themed artwork, woven baskets, beeswax wraps, and glassware. The market takes place on the second and fourth Saturday of the month, as well as Easter Saturday and March/June long weekends, from 9am-1pm at 5 Railway Place, Port Fairy.
Daylesford Sunday Market Held every Sunday from 8am-3pm at Daylesford Railway Station, 18 Raglan Street, Daylesford, this market in a heritage town offers up to 130 stalls with fresh food, handwoven scarves, timber toys, original paintings, artisan soaps, eco-friendly fashion, and other unique gifts.
For those planning a road trip to these markets, it is highly recommended to have an active and updated emergency roadside assistance plan. This ensures peace of mind in case of any vehicle trouble, such as breakdowns or accidents, especially in regional or rural areas where services may be less accessible or delayed.
Beyond Victoria's Borders
Venture beyond Victoria's borders, and you'll find more incredible markets. In British Columbia, for instance, the Moss Street Farmers Market in Victoria offers over 30 local organic farmers, 120+ crafters, artisans, food & drink vendors, live music, hot lunches, plus cideries, distillers, brewers, and vintners.
In Duncan, near Victoria, the Duncan Farmers’ Market offers fresh local fruits and vegetables, baking, jams & jellies, honey, crafts, clothing, pet treats, and more, with live music April–October. The Qualicum Beach Farmers Market, another BC gem, features local produce, crafts, and community vibes every Saturday from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM, rain or shine, year-round.
These markets provide not only a chance to sample fresh, local produce and unique handmade crafts but also offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical fabric of their respective regions. So, pack your bags, update your roadside assistance plan, and embark on a journey through Victoria's bustling markets.
- After exploring the vibrant regional markets of Victoria, consider broadening your travels to discover Moss Street Farmers Market in Victoria, British Columbia, offering a diverse selection of local organic food, artisans, live music, and more.
- Incorporate shopping for unique handmade crafts and fresh produce into your home-and-garden lifestyle by including a visit to Qualicum Beach Farmers Market, every Saturday in BC, featuring local produce, crafts, and community vibes year-round.
