Top five markets in the Grampians region and surrounds
If moseying around a market on a weekend is your idea of heaven, then you’ll be spoilt for choice in the Grampians region. The local markets are a real treasure trove of delights – locals and tourists alike can be found getting to know the friendly growers, makers and sellers. From local artisans to seasonal producers, there is something for everyone. Buy yourself a coffee (don’t forget your reusable cup) and soak up the atmosphere as you browse the various stalls. You’re sure to take home something unique or delicious, and you’ll be putting a smile on the faces of small business owners too.
Here are five of our favourite local markets to discover:
Ararat Trash & Treasure Market
When: Second Sunday of each month
Time: 9am-1pm
Where: Alexandra Hall and Grounds
Ararat Trash & Treasure Market is a long-established indoor and outdoor country market with approximately 60 stallholders. There is so much to see with handmade products aplenty, such as candles, soaps and jewellery. Don’t miss the homemade cakes and slices or the hundreds of books and bits of bric-a-brac.
Image Credit:Ararat Rural City
Great Western Makers Market
When: First Sunday in February, May, August and November
Time: 10am-2pm
Where: Great Western Hall
The Great Western Makers Market is a true community affair. Held in the Great Western Hall, the stalls showcase a host of different crafts, with their motto “make it, bake it, grow it”. From handcrafted cards and pots to woodwork gifts and beautiful brooches, it’s the perfect place to pick up a unique gift.
Image Credit: Great Western Makers Market
Pomonal Village Market
When: Last Sunday of each month
Time: 9am-1pm
Where: Pomonal Community Hall
Take the family and your four-legged friend to Pomonal Village Market and support many of the local makers and producers in the area. Pick from handmade treats, trash and treasure, and fresh produce. You’ll often find delicious jams and preserves, plants and more. Don’t forget to check out the coffee, too.
Image Credit: Ararat Rural City Council
Halls Gap Market
When: Every long weekend throughout the year (Labour Day Sunday, Easter Sunday, Queen’s Birthday Sunday, and Melbourne Cup Sunday)
Time: 9am-1pm
Where: Halls Gap Recreational Ground (cricket oval)
The Halls Gap market was established in 1997 and is run by the Halls Gap Primary School’s parent volunteers. It’s a great place for families and the perfect spot for a picnic, too –≠ just make sure you visit some of the many produce stalls or the food and coffee vans to create the perfect brunch. Browse the high-quality arts and crafts stalls and soak up the friendly atmosphere.
Gold coin donation at the gate.
The Mill Markets Ballarat
When: Daily, except Christmas Day
Time: 10am-6pm
Where: 9367 Western Highway, Warrenheip
A bit further afield from Great Western, but a great stop-off in between Melbourne and our region, the renowned Mill Markets claim to have Australia’s largest mix of collectables, fashions, home decor, antiques, vintage and industrial wares. The markets also take place in Geelong and Daylesford. You could spend an entire day at this collector’s market, especially if you have a passion for vintage. Keep up your energy with a stop-off at the Magri’s café, also open every day and serving delicious food including cakes, slices, sandwiches and coffee.
Image Credit: Mill Markets
Planning your trip to the Grampians region?
Here are some other local suggestions to make the most of your time in the region. Don’t forget to plan a trip to our Great Western Cellar Door while you are in town.
• The Grampians Peaks Hiking Trail
• Best Places to eat around Halls Gap, Ararat and Stawell
• Exploring Best’s hometown of Great Western
• Family Friendly Places to visit in the Grampians
