Hawthorn’s Patterson Reserve comes alive each month as Victorian farmers, producers and food-loving locals gather for the Boroondara Farmers Market.
The market brings produce from small primary producers across Victoria directly to shoppers, with over 60 stalls packed with fresh seasonal food and locally made products.
Described as one of Melbourne’s largest and longest-running genuine farmers markets, the Boroondara Farmers Market is accredited by the Victorian Farmers’ Markets Association (VFMA) and focuses on connecting shoppers directly with the people who grow and make their food.
Shop direct from Victorian farmers and producers
Visitors can shop for fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs, seasonal organic produce, meat and smallgoods, honey, eggs, bread, olives, cakes, pastries, dips and sauces. The market also features free-range eggs and dairy, handmade bread and pasta, artisan jams, wine and beer, as well as gourmet coffee and hot food.
For shoppers interested beyond simply filling a basket, the market provides an opportunity to speak directly with farmers and producers and learn about the ingredients and processes behind the food they bring to Hawthorn.
That direct connection is central to the market’s purpose, with organisers encouraging visitors to “shop in a community, reduce your food miles [and] support small Victorian primary producers.”
It also gives shoppers a chance to ask questions about where their food comes from while supporting the small producers behind it.
The market is an initiative of the City of Boroondara in partnership with the Rotary Club of Glenferrie, which manages the market on market day. Money raised supports community projects run by Rotary Club of Glenferrie and Foundation Boroondara, meaning a visit to the market also contributes to local community initiatives.
Doggy Day is coming to Hawthorn this weekend
This Saturday, 29th August, the market will have an extra attraction for local dog lovers, with a Doggy Day running alongside the regular farmers market.
Visitors can find free veterinary advice, dog training, pet treats and a dog competition, while browsing the market’s fresh produce and artisan food stalls.
It’s also a chance to make a morning of it, with coffee and hot food on offer alongside the regular selection of seasonal produce and local specialties.
A Saturday market built around local food
The Boroondara Farmers Market is held on the third and fifth Saturday of each month at Patterson Reserve, or in the Reserve car park.
Its focus remains firmly on Victorian farmers and producers, giving shoppers the chance to buy directly from the source while reducing food miles and supporting small primary producers.
From seasonal fruit and vegetables and fresh bread to local meat and artisan products, the market brings a broad selection of Victorian produce to Hawthorn.
So, with free entry, an outdoor setting and dogs welcome, it’s an easy weekend stop for a fresh food shop and a wander through the stalls.
Key details
- What: Boroondara Farmers Market
- Where: Patterson Reserve, 484 Auburn Road, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, or the Reserve car park
- When: Saturday, 29th August from 8.00am to 12.30pm
- Entry: Free
