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A market. Photo by Annie Spratt on

Top 10 Fascinating Facts about Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market

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. 

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. 

1. Shongweni Market ticks all the right boxes

Cheeky Finger on the back of a moped. Photo by Max Brown on

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. 

2. The market offers a well-curated selection of stalls

A trip to the landlocked country in Africa reveals visual surprises. Photo by Social Income on

 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. 

3. Shongweni Market started with a Dream

A busy market. A busy market. Photo by Jezael Melgoza on

The Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market were 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.

4. The selection of stalls has evolved to an extensive selection of products

Elderly street vendor. Photo by Jose Murillo on

 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.

5. The market site is perfectly positioned

Market by the seaside. Photo by Sabrina Mazzeo on

 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 locals is crucial.

6. This market oozes stereotypical country charm

Looking for New Threads. Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on

This market oozes stereotypical country charm. It’s almost mandatory to pack up the family and dog, take a sturdy basket and arrive early. Treat yourself with breakfast and, from your vantage point on a hay bale, decide your method of attack.

Peruse stalls at a leisurely place as hands-on producers passionately talk you through their wares from traditional English sausages to decadent baked goods, handcrafted organic cheeses, bread, and rustic French staples like terrines and rillettes.

7. You will come across Middle Eastern and Mediterranean specialties from baklava to falafel

Man in tweed. Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on

You’ll also find Middle Eastern and Mediterranean specialties from baklava to falafel. If you’re shopping with a conscience you can buy organic veg or a pre-installed, irrigated system to grow your organic vegetables.

8. Overlooking the majestic Kirk Falls sits The Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market

Local fruit market. Photo by Diego Catto on

Upon a hill in the Shongweni Valley, KZN overlooking the majestic Kirk Falls sits The Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market. Just a short drive meandering through the picturesque cane fields bright and early every Saturday morning from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm & every last Sunday from 08:00 am to 1:00 pm, you will find a buzz of activity.

Our local traders sell everything from fresh produce, deli, food, crafts, and art. The market has an ambiance like no other, which is complemented by the local talented musicians who perform every week on two stages, we often have the likes of Qadasi, Tanner Wareham, and Indeep.

9. The market is a space for the whole family to enjoy

Colourful summer berries offer a healthier alternative to dessert . Photo by Emmy Smith on

The market is a space for the whole family to enjoy and spend time together (pets included!), kids can run free and also take part in some of the activities such as The Shongweni Express Train rides, pony rides, merry-go-rounds, and jungle gyms.

 If you would like to take a walk on the wild side we have a short nature trail. Adults are welcome to join us in The Standing Room in the main hall where we serve our very own craft beer and gin.

We are open rain or shine as we are all undercover and we are fully wheelchair accessible.

10. Many Durbanites habitually visit Shongwnei Farmers Market on a Saturday

Tomato in Farmers market. Photo by Robert Kalinagil on

The well-known Shongwnei Farmers Market that many Durbanites habitually visit on a Saturday has endured a surreal amount of pressure and stress with the effects of the #KZNFloods.

Christine Standeaven, the organizer of the events, shared how the roads have been washed away and the financial issues her team has faced. 

However, community influence and Christine’s resounding resilience and hustle led to the much-anticipated re-opening of this magical place.