6 of South Australia’s best markets

By Clair Morton
Published: Thursday, July 19, 2018

Long before supermarkets started popping up, growers' markets were a staple of everyday life – the place you’d go to do your grocery shopping, hang out with friends and get the best gossip. These days, they provide all that and more. Here are six of South Australia’s best. Words: Clair Morton.

1. Adelaide Central Market

Tuesday–Saturday from 7am (opens 9am on Wednesdays)

When international superstar Pink spends time here, you know it’s worth doing. The Adelaide Central Market – one of Australia’s largest undercover fresh food markets – is an institution that has been in place since 1869. It is home to more than 70 traders, some favourites among them being Providore, Gourmet To Go, Angelakis Bros seafood, and the Smelly Cheese Shop.

Take a walk through the Adelaide Central Markets.

2. Stansbury Seaside Markets

Once a month and every long weekend from October–April

Located on the shore of Stansbury, this award-winning market was the first of its kind on the Yorke Peninsula and offers a unique country feel. And because it’s not on every week, it feels a bit like a special treat every time it rolls around. Expect live music, fresh produce and homemade preserves and baked goods, balanced out with arts and crafts, clothing, and plenty of activities for the kids too.

3. Willunga Farmers’ Market

Every Saturday from 7am–1pm

Is there a better way to kick off your weekend than wandering through market stalls with a warm coffee in hand? Frequent visitors of the Willunga Farmers’ Market would argue not. Every Saturday the small town comes alive with fresh, locally-sourced produce, from bakery goods to fruit and everything in between. Become a member and get 10% off all purchases.

Get the freshest apples at the Willunga Farmers Markets.

4. Plant 4 Markets

Wednesdays 4–9pm, Fridays from 5pm, Saturdays 9am–3pm

North-west of the Adelaide CBD is a gem that’s worth visiting at least once. Plant 4, located in the old Clipsal building in Bowden, hosts a number of different special events every month but it’s the regular market that draws its most loyal followers. Because who doesn’t want to do their grocery shop in a funky market atmosphere with live acoustic or DJ music?

5. Barossa Farmers’ Market

Every Saturday from 7.30–11.30am

Tucked away in the Vintners’ Sheds in Angaston is the place where local growers gather to sell their freshest produce. It’s the perfect place to chat with the locals and really get to the heart of the region, beyond its wineries. Don’t eat before you come either – the breakfast bar is serving food and coffee all morning – don’t miss out on the delicious breakfast burger.

Sample the wares at the Barossa Farmers Markets.

6. Bowerbird Design Market

Twice a year

Held at the Adelaide Showground, this market is a gathering of creators, designers and artists from South Australia and beyond. Trawling stalls isn’t the only thing to do here either – eat and drink, listen to music, or book yourself in for one of the crafty workshops that run throughout each event. If you’re interested, the next market is on 23–25 November. Entry to this market is $5 for adults. Children are free.