No longer just someone’s hobby or side project, market stalls have become great sources of bargains and beautiful products, with a focus on creating great items for a rather picky audience. Says Jane Kilian Shaw, head honcho at Marketed (marketed.co.za), an online central listing site for markets and stallholders across South Africa, “The Durban night market scene is growing at an exponential pace. Markets provide companies and small businesses with great opportunities to showcase their products and services in a casual setting.” Here are Durban’s top three night flea markets to add to your list of fun things to do:
Musgrave Centre Rooftop night market
Making shopping easier than ever, the monthly night market at Musgrave Centre is a recent addition to the Durban scene, having opened in February this year. After you’re finished buying the groceries, head upstairs to the Level 5 parking lot for your pick of locally made craft, cuisine and goods. Pencil in the first Friday of every month – see you there from 5pm.
Market at the Square
Held at Umhlanga’s Granada Square on the last Friday of each month, Market at the Square has become a go-to for Friday evening fun. With artisanal wares, slow food, great music and an electric atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with this night market. Quench your thirst with a cooler from Café Strawberry, or fill up on some Wicked Donuts as you browse.
The Litchi Orchard night market
Take a trip a little further up the coastline to the Litchi Orchard in Salt Rock. More than just a cafe and marketplace, the Litchi Orchard night market on the last Friday of each month is a full package of family entertainment that comes together perfectly under the stars. Enjoy a leisurely meander through the various stalls and enjoy the home-made goodies and spectacular food on offer to the sounds of great live music.
Experience it for yourself:
Musgrave Centre Rooftop night market: 076 862 1547, musgravecentre.co.za
Market at the Square: 079 892 9213, themarketco.co.za
The Litchi Orchard Night Market: 032 525 5118, litchiorchard.co.za
Visit Private Property’s showcased video and images of Durban Central for more things to do in Durban.
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
