5 farmers' markets Victorians love
Nothing says ‘Saturday morning’ like a freshly-baked pastry and a hot cup of coffee from your favourite vendor at your local farmers’ market.
You can’t beat the buzz of real market stalls, the cut and thrust of the sale and the weird and wonderful people who go there every week. And, if you’re anything like us, you won’t mind doubling-down on a deluxe vegan brekky, takeaway cheesecake or a half-hour foot massage!
The truth is, there are so many ways to treat yourself right at a good Farmers Market. Just being amongst the aromas of freshly ground coffee, the creamiest of cheeses, and seafood fresh from the ocean is a joy.
Credit: @inseasonjuices
Try a day out at any of these Farmers Markets in regional Victoria, then why not make a weekend of it with us.
All of them are run for the benefit of the producers and growers themselves, and as I’m sure you’ll agree, beat any visit to your nearest Coles or Woolies hands down!
ECHUCA FARMERS' MARKET
At Echuca Farmers’ Market, you can expect to find hidden gems in an authentically rural riverland setting.
When: 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month, 8am - 1pm
Where: Echuca’s Aquatic Reserve, 2 Heygarth St, Echuca
Credit: @jamiesfinesdressings
Rustic vibes are in full flow at the Echuca Farmers’ Market. Held every first and third Sunday of the month, local producers here have been meeting the cravings for fresh food (and fresh bargains) of an enthusiastic and eclectic crowd for years.
Replete with all manner of trinket and ‘upcycled’ goods, not to mention locally-grown produce and sweet treats by riverland artisans (no resellers allowed), the community-based Echuca Farmers’ Market is accredited by the Victorian Farmers’ Market Association, and is a reflection of the olde-world charm of the region.
Find out for yourself why Quincy Jones Jelly Preserves is popping up on billboards around Sydney, then acquaint your tastebuds with some nutty granola, homemade honey and fresh fruit.
Credit: @quincyjonesjelly
Once you’ve examined every jar and seeded loaf on display, you still have the town of Echuca itself to unravel.
Just like the market, a fantastic variety of cuisine is available once appetites return. Choose from boutique winemakers, authentic chocolate or craft beer suppliers who love welcoming visitors from all over Australia!
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After that, hop on a classic steam-powered paddle boat or ease yourself down the Murray River Canoe Trail. You won’t be disappointed!
THE FRESH MARKET WARRNAMBOOL
A market by the sea? Count us in!
When: 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month, 8.30am-1pm
Where: Lake Pertobe, Warrnambool
Credit: @freshmarketwarrnambool
Before you hit the Great Ocean Road, get by this market for a stock up of fresh food supplies and wicked treats - perfect for the car ride you’re about to take!
Set in the lush green surrounds of Lake Pertobe, this Farmers' Market is the ideal way to treat yourself to some fantastically creative crafts. Showcasing southwest Victoria’s finest producers, creators and designers, this is more than just a market, it’s an experience!
Credit: @janedoughwarrnambool
A vibrant day out for the family no matter what time of year, live music and laughter regularly fill the air.
There are workshops to attend and all manner of different people to meet. Known for its pastries and wide variety of food, why not grab a punnet of strawberries and wander down to the lake.
After that it’s time to explore the largest city on the Great Ocean Road.
Take in the picturesque beauty of Warrnambool, with its stunning wildlife, the chance to watch a whale, an adventure park for kids and endless options for scenic coastal walks. A day to remember for the whole family!
MAKE IT BAKE IT GROW IT MARKET - BRIGHT
Shopping Heaven in the Victorian Highlands!
When: 3rd Saturday of every month, 9am-1pm
Where: Howitt Park, Bright (by the Ovens River)
Credit: Bright Markets
While you won’t be able to eat absolutely everything here, you will find a huge selection of locally made, high-quality craft products.
From pottery, jewellery and woodwork, to kids clothes, candles and dog treats, you’re sure to find something original - all a part of the ‘make it, grow it, bake it’ philosophy.
Credit: Bright Markets
Visitors are always made to feel very welcome, and are more often than not lured into the riverside location by live folk music and the delicious scent of freshly made pastries.
Of course, there is also an abundance of artisanal food and drink, from olive oil to boutique wineries, to unique sweets, nuts and even fresh trout from the nearby Oven River!
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In the heart of Victoria’s Great Alpine Valleys, Bright is its very own food bowl, so you can expect to take home local cheeses, honeys and jams as a tasty souvenir of your trip.
Once you’ve stocked up, fill a picnic basket and travel along the Murray to Mountain Rail Trail that weaves through the nearby Mount Buffalo National Park. Take to the skies for some ballooning, kayak down the river or strap on the skis if it's that time of year. You’ll never be bored in Bright!
SOUTH GEELONG FARMERS’ MARKET
Another market by the sea, and this one’s in a primary school! We love it.
When: 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month, 9am-1pm
Where: Geelong South Primary School, South Geelong
Credit: @the_local_market
A quaint setting in a local primary school not far from the beginning of the Great Ocean Road, this a popular and bustling marketplace giving local artisans the chance to sell their wares.
With over 40 stalls and a regular return crowd of very happy punters, the community feel here is more than just a vibe.
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From gourmet rice puffs and hydroponic tomatoes to organic snacks for hangry pets or something to treat the one you love, this is classic Farmers’ Market browsing in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Credit: South Geelong Farmers Market
If any of the fam are dragging their feet, it’s easy to drop them off at the petting zoo or playground inside.
More time to fill your boots and tote bags while soaking in the soothing sights and sounds of this awesome market. You may even fancy a local gin from the Original Gin Company. It’s 5 o’clock somewhere!
COBURG FARMERS MARKET
Although a suburb of Melbourne, growers from regions all over Victoria attend this beautiful market in Coburg which features live music entertainment and has long been a mecca for brunch lovers!
When: Every Saturday, 8am-1pm
Where: Coburg Primary School, Coburg
Credit: @flindersourdough
Soak up the cosy small town feel at this popular weekly Farmers’ Market.
Despite its growth as a regional hub for growers from all over the state, it has managed to retain a country vibe in this culturally diverse outer suburb of Melbourne.
Credit: Coburg Farmers Market
With over 30 stalls, Coburg Farmers’ Market covers all the classic bases with tantalizing treats and organic meats, fruits, vegetables, and a dazzling display of fresh flowers.
As a not-for-profit enterprise that also supports local school projects, this market is a plastic-free environment that is all about championing its accredited farmers and producers who come from near and far each week.
Credit: Coburg Farmers Market
The kids will also love this one with face-painting, chalk-drawing and an animal farm among the market’s permanent activities.
There’s even a piano on stage for the musically-minded. Young or old, it’s a guaranteed day of family fun!
