Melbourne has forever been a hub for food and culture in Australia, and the incredible Melbourne farmers markets are proof of that. Every weekend, across the city, people come together to enjoy the friendly atmosphere of these markets, and grab some great value fruit, veg, and snacks while there.
There are almost too many farmer’s markets to count across Melbourne City, however, here are five of our favourites:
Flemington Farmers Markets
When: Every Sunday (8:30 am – 12:30 pm)
This farmer’s markets has been going strong for more than a decade, and seems to keep growing in size. In fact, it was the first market in the city to achieve Victorian Farmer’s Market Association accreditation, which certifies that stallholders must have either grown or made what they’re selling. It’s proof of quality, in other words.
You’re not going to just find produce in this market. There is plenty of that, of course, but if you’ve got a hankering for treats like organic chocolate, lemon butter, jams and other homemade goods, this market has you covered. Grab a hot pie or falafel while you’re there, too, and make a real outing of it.
Carlton Farmer’s Market
When: Every Saturday (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)
Let the kids stretch their legs and play as you enjoy this farmer’s market that sets up at Carlton North Primary School. There’s also plenty of seating and you’re most welcome to take your time and explore the full range of what’s on offer.
Across the stalls you’ll find seasonal fruit and veg, plenty of eggs and meats, as well as gourmet olives and oils… which will be perfect to go with the authentic cheeses breads and pastries that you’ll pick up.
You can even bring your furry pals, with well-behaved dogs on leashes not only welcome, but actively encouraged. They’ll enjoy all the head pats too!
North Essendon Farmers Markets
When: The third Sunday of each month (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)
Another family (and doggo)-friendly farmers markets with a wonderful social atmosphere, the North Essendon Farmers Market is a cash-based, laid-back, friendly place that’s as much a festival and celebration as it is a place to shop. You’ll find a truly eclectic and eccentric range of goods on offer at this one, from baked goods to brewed beer, freshly grown fruit and veg and the work of talented local artists and craftsmen.
You’ll also find local musicians lending a hand to brighten the place up, and it’s a chance to support the local entrepreneurs in following their passion. Take, for example, the story of Maria Lusia that the markets recently shared on its Facebook page: “I was searching for an Almond milk that, when you drink it, it would really taste like almonds, but I couldn’t find it. So, this is how my journey began. I decided to make my own. After many tentative moments and through perseverance, I created exactly what I was looking for, a natural Almond Milk that when you drink it, you could really taste the goodness of the almonds.”
Abbortsford Convent Market
When: Every second Saturday of the month (8:00 am – 2:00 pm)
With the iconic Abborsford Convent serving as the backdrop, this has become one of the big to-do things in Melbourne. Every second Saturday of the month, nearly 50 stallholders (and sometimes more) converge to make a market that truly has something for everyone.
This farmers market is put on by the Regional Farmer’s Market group, which is one of the oldest and most established operators of farmers markets in Australia. When you buy from these stalls, you can feel good about what you’re doing, because you’re supporting a group that is committed to building food security, sustainability and bettering female representation in the food industry. Not a bad way to go about your weekly food shop!
Gasworks Farmers Market
When: Every third Saturday of the month (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)
The former Gasworks has become one of Melbourne’s most celebrated arts and culture hubs, and once per month, it becomes one of the most popular farmers markets in the city as well.
This market offers a vibrant range of goodies across the 50+ stalls that are set up each month. For those that enjoy a fine gin, the Bellarine Distillery has been a regular feature for some time now. Delectable deli meats are another popular choice, and you just have to indulge in one of the famous sourdough doughnuts while you’re there.
You’ll even be able to pick up some freshly cut flowers, to brighten your home as you enjoy all the fresh produce you’ll pick up.
This is just a tiny cross-section of the amazing farmers markets that run in and around Melbourne each week. The next time you’ve got a weekend morning free, have a look at what might be running in your local area, and drop in. You’ll be constantly amazed by the wholesome good food and creativity of the farmers and craftspeople of Melbourne!
We highly recommend that our Good and Fugly family take the time to check out the local famers markets, in whatever state or city you’re in. Not only do you support local growers when you do, but what you’ll find there always pairs up perfectly with what you’ll find in your weekly or fortnightly Good and Fugly box. Not signed up yet? Why not give us a go and see for yourself!
