Get Out of The Malls & Off to Durban’s Markets!

Perhaps it's because Durban's laidback lifestyle lends itself to meandering through markets, rather than stomping through swarms of people in shopping malls but the market scene in Durban is growing at a rapid pace!

Each month, it seems, residents and visitors to the East Coast find new things to do in Durban as new markets are added to the city's event calendar all the time.With so many markets in Durban to choose from, we've put together this little list of our top 5 must-see spots.

Just 20 minutes away from Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom, you'll find the Litchi Orchard. A collective space that houses a café, nursery, bakery and pub, the Litchi Orchard makes incredible use of its larger estate, operating special market and pop up shop events every month. With ample parking and lots to do at the Litchi Orchard, it's a great way to spend the morning with family and friends or relax in the evening.

The Litchi Orchard Market is open every second Saturday, from 09h00 to 14h00. Stallholders offer creative décor, cuisine and handicraft so you're certain to find unique trinkets, treasures and essentials here. The night market takes place once a month at the Litchi Orchard, usually on the last Friday evening of each month.

The brainchild of Durban creative mind, Anna Savage, I Heart Market was quick to become a Durban institution. Now more than 14 years later, this market is a resident sight at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, taking place once a month (Saturday, 08h30 to 14h00) and getting Durbanites out in their droves to bargain-hunt and browse. Local foodies, designers and crafters showcase their wares, while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere that this city is so well known for.

Situated in the beautiful Berea Park every Saturday from 09h00 to 14h00 is the Musgrave Market. The market serves as opportunity for 120 small businesses to sell their products to locals and visitors. With such a range of options one can find almost anything from food to accessories, while the market organisers additional treats, such as; music, henna art, massages, a nail bar, and kids’ activities. 

Beneath a canopy of indigenous trees in Durban North's upmarket area (Uitsig Road) the Golden Hours Family Market which opens every Sunday from 10h00 to 15h30. The weekend market focuses on promoting local and sustainable goods, such as; home produce,  fresh vegetables and fruit, crafts, pottery, and clothing. 

8 Morrison Street is part of a Durban urban regeneration initiative that spruces up some of the city's previously run down areas and reopens them as exciting new places to be.

The Morning Trade takes place every Sunday morning on 8 Morrison Street in Rivertown, and is an artisan produce market. Residents of and visitors to Durban are making the Morning Trade the best way to start a Sunday from 10h00 to 13h00, as the stallholders put a wide range of incredible delicacies, treats and snacks on the menu!

Those are our top 5 Durban markets. Which are your favourite?