Cowrie Markets begin 2024-25 season

MARKET season has arrived on the Surf Coast with the popular Torquay Cowrie Markets to return for another year.

The first market will take place on Torquay’s The Esplanade this Sunday with minimal changes to previous years, but market co-ordinator Tania Bartlett said a slight shift to the time frames will hopefully bring in more foot traffic.

“The big new point is the market hours are changing to 9am to 2pm, where previously

it was held from 10am to 3pm,” Ms Bartlett said.

“We find the mornings are our busiest times, and especially on a hot day we are busy early, and the numbers drop off considerably after lunch.

“We surveyed our stallholders for their feedback, and this was the final decision. Everything else remains the same.”

The markets will be held on the third Sunday of each month leading up to Easter Sunday at Elephant Walk.

This year’s market dates are October 20, November 17, December 15, January 19, February 16, March 16 and April 20.

The Cowrie Markets specialise in local art, craft, jewellery, fashion, vintage goods, plants, gifts and produce.

“There is always a buzz ahead of the market season, with stallholders creating new products over the winter ready to showcase to Surf Coast locals and visitors,” Ms Bartlett said.

“We have a few more interactive stalls this year from local businesses and great local music as always.

“We aim to be a plastic-free event and encourage visitors to bring their own bags, cups and drink bottles.”

The next seven months of markets marks the 27th year the Cowrie Markets have been held in Torquay and will host over 140 market stalls.

For more information, head to torquaycowriemarket.com