IF you fancy an outdoor market where you can visit with your family during the festive season, consider making a trip to some of the best Durban markets as voted by the public.

Proudly voted the Best Outdoor Market in Durban for three consecutive years (2023, 2024,2025), in the Best of Durban Readers’ Choice Awards, the Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market is more than a shopping destination, it’s a place where families and friends connect in beautiful natural surroundings while supporting local.

The market was founded in 1998 by Keith and Christine Standeaven – the aim was to bring farm fresh products to the local community. What began as a small gathering of 12 traders open for only three hours on a Saturday morning has grown into a vibrant meeting place where family and friends connect.

Also read: Markets in the 031 – The Shongweni Farmers’ and Craft Market

The market trades every Saturday from 07:00 to 13:00 but over the Festive Season, the markets adds extra trading days.

This December, the crafters and vendors are looking to welcome the public on December 13, 14, 16, 20, 21, 27, and 28 – all from 07:00 to 13:00.

Why people choose the market?

Nestled in the breathtaking Shongweni Valley and overlooking the majestic Ngede/Wekeweke Falls, marketing manager Vanessa Fraden said their market also offers free live music on two stages every market day, and there’s always something to enjoy.

“One of the highlights of our market is our incredible community of crafters. From handmade home décor and unique jewellery to woodwork, ceramics, clothing, art, and bespoke gifts, our traders pour passion and creativity into every item they make.

“And yes … the food! We’re also proud winners of the Best Food Market in the Best of Durban Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. Our food court offers a wide range of artisanal dishes, flavours, and treats that will leave you absolutely spoilt for choice,” said Fraden with pride.

For families, Fraden said The Village is their dedicated children’s zone, where little ones can play to their hearts’ content.

“Free activities include jungle gyms, climbing frames, mini soccer, and a short nature walk with parents. We also offer the Shongweni Zipline, Carousel, Shongweni Snake Park, Hot Shots Quad Bikes, Putt Putt, Paintball, Fun Faces face painting, and the Groovyland Fun Fair — plenty to guarantee a peaceful nap on the drive home!

“We are proudly pet-friendly (please keep pets on a leash and bring pooh bags), and fully equipped for accessibility with wheelchair-friendly pathways, dedicated parking, and two handicap restrooms. There is also an onsite paramedic and first aid room for added peace of mind,” she added.

Golden Hours Family Market

On Sundays, there is also an option of visiting Golden Hours Family Market in Durban North which was voted as the third Best Market in the Best of Durban Readers’ Choice Awards.

One of the founders, Lyn Wilson, said the market was started on November 14, 1999.

“It is a fundraiser for Golden Hours Special Needs School.”

Also read: Markets in the 031: Golden Hours Family Market has much to offer

Wilson said they started the market with three ideals in mind, to raise much needed funds for the special children, to create informal employment for individuals, as a meeting place where the community and families can gather to enjoy live music and relax in a shady tea garden while enjoying a huge variety of freshly prepared meals.

“We have a huge variety of stalls from handmade toys, clothing, jewellery, plants, to edibles like pickles, biltong, cakes and biscuits. Our food stalls offer vetkoek, pancakes, curries, burgers, pizza and much more.”

The market is open every Sunday from 10:00 to 15:00 at 21 Uitsig Road, Durban North.

On Monday, December 15 and Tuesday, December 16, they will host their annual carols by candlelight from 18:00 to 21:00.

“There will be carols, festive music, Santa and snow.”

Contact Lyn Wilson on 083 262 3693.

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