The Docklands Waterfront Farmers’ Market is returning to Melbourne’s waterfront this Sunday, 20th September, for its biggest market yet, bringing more than 50 Victorian growers, producers, artisan makers and food vendors to Harbour Esplanade.
Running from 10am to 3pm, the market will be packed with fresh Victorian produce, specialty foods, baked goods, ready-to-eat meals and barista-made coffee. There will also be free kids’ activities, guided kayak adventures, a floating restaurant and a community open day happening across the Docklands waterfront.
A busy market by the water
Following its launch earlier this year, the Docklands Waterfront Farmers’ Market is establishing itself as a new destination for local food lovers and weekend visitors.
Held along Harbour Esplanade, the September market will feature more than 50 stalls showcasing Victorian produce, specialty foods, baked goods, ready-to-eat meals and coffee.
The market brings together local growers, producers and makers, giving visitors the chance to shop directly from the people behind some of Victoria’s food and produce while enjoying the waterfront setting.
And with the September edition being the biggest market yet, there’s plenty to explore throughout the day.
Shop fresh Victorian produce and artisan goods
There’s nothing better than filling your market basket with fresh, local produce straight from the growers, and there will be plenty to choose from at this month’s market.
Visitors can browse through fresh Victorian produce alongside specialty foods, baked goods, ready-to-eat meals and barista-made coffee.
Among the businesses appearing at the market are Elwood Sourdough, Plenty Valley Produce, Bite Me Fine Foods, Doron, Eggs Melbourne, Spud Sisters, Pasta Reggio Vic, Gourmet Pies and The 3 Bees Honey.
Stock up on authentic Italian favourites from Pasta Reggio Vic and bring a little taste of Italy home with you. Gourmet Pies will also be serving up hearty, gourmet pies packed with generous fillings and wrapped in golden pastry.
For something a little sweeter, The 3 Bees Honey will be bringing raw, unprocessed, single-origin Australian honey. Harvested with care and packed with natural flavour, it’s another local addition to take home from the market.
With such a broad mix of growers and food producers, the September market is a chance to pick up everything from fresh ingredients for the week ahead to something delicious to eat while wandering the waterfront.
Free fishing activities for the kids
Families will have plenty to keep the little ones entertained, with Hooked On–Free Kids Fishing Clinics running throughout the day.
Presented by the Victorian Fisheries Authority, the free kids’ fishing clinics require bookings. There will also be a fishing simulator and other family-friendly activities running from 10am to 3pm, with walk-ins welcome.
So while adults browse the market stalls, younger visitors can get involved with some hands-on fishing activities of their own.
Explore Docklands by kayak & lunch on the water
For those wanting to get out onto the water, Kayak Melbourne will be running guided kayak adventures throughout the day. The guided adventures will depart from the Community Boating Hub at 10.30am and 1pm.
Bookings are required, so anyone keen to swap the market stalls for a paddle should secure a spot ahead of time.
Adding to the waterfront atmosphere, the Victoria Star Floating Restaurant at the Ferry Terminal will be serving a special market day menu from 12pm to 3pm. The floating restaurant will also have a fully stocked bar, making it a spot to settle in for lunch after browsing the market.
Meanwhile, Port Phillip Ferries Café is extending its trading hours especially for market day, opening from 10am to 3pm this Sunday. Visitors can stop by the ferry terminal for a coffee and a bite to eat while exploring the market and surrounding waterfront.
Also, the Ship4Good Community Open Day will run alongside the market from 12.30pm to 4pm, with free entry, live music, food and refreshments.
A new monthly tradition for Docklands
Led by the Docklands Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of Melbourne, Development Victoria and the Victorian Farmers’ Market Association, the Docklands Waterfront Farmers’ Market aims to create a regular waterfront gathering that supports local producers while bringing residents and visitors into the precinct.
With its mix of Victorian growers, food producers, family activities and waterfront experiences, the market offers another reason to spend a Sunday exploring Docklands.
Key details
- What: Docklands Waterfront Farmers’ Market
- When: Sunday, 20 September, 10am–3pm
- Where: Harbour Esplanade, Docklands
- Entry: Free
