Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market - a great Saturday morning out

Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market – held every Saturday morning – must surely rate as one of the best markets in the country, and hands-down the top market in greater Durban.

When I visited the Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market I discovered mad, beautiful, inventive, tasty, whimsical, and magical things that I realised I simply cannot live without – like fossilised dinosaur teeth; popcorn flavoured fudge; a lilac unicorn-emblazoned wooden sword and shield; a genuine golden-haired Smurfette and strawberry, lemon and cracked black pepper jam.

Shopping Frenzy

It’s easy to get caught up in a shopping frenzy – the conditions are exactly right: friendly stallholders; an astonishing selection of products (at least 200 stalls to choose from); gentle music; happy dogs; plenty of space, huge sit-down areas…. and a talking dinosaur at the popcorn stand.

With all of us looking for interesting things to do, ideally outdoors to be Covid compliant, which is family and dog friendly and works within a variety of budgets – Shongweni Market ticks all the right boxes. It offers a well-curated selection of stalls, an extensive variety of food and refreshments, attentive safety and security, ease of parking and access, great ambiance, and a relaxing vibe.

Started with a Dream

The Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market was established by the Standeaven family in 1998, who dreamed of starting a weekly farmers market to help local farmers move surplus stock. It started with 12 stalls on an open field at the Shongweni Polo Club – and grew rapidly. From being a fresh produce farmers market, the selection of stalls has evolved to an extensive selection of products, services, and wares from micro-enterprises, local entrepreneurs, and craftspeople. Most of the stalls are owner-run allowing visitors to engage directly with the manufacturers and artists; and for customized items and services to be negotiated.

And when you have shopped ’til you’ve dropped – enjoy a pink gin, live music, and a great view. The market site is perfectly positioned to be able to enjoy the majestic scenery from numerous sit-down spots.

In the current economic climate, and as we emerge out of an exceedingly difficult time, supporting local is crucial.