EXPLORE 51 Bright and early every weekend, market stalls are set up all around the city to offer an array of antiques, fruit and vegetables, and handmade goods you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else. Farmers’ and flea markets have shaken off their alternative air to become the go-to for weekend master chefs looking for exotic ingredients, cool hunters in search of mid- century bric-a-brac, or families just looking for an inexpensive but interesting way to spend time together. A decade ago there were only 70 farmers’ markets to be found Australia-wide, but now there are almost the same number of markets recognised by the Australian Farmers’ Markets Association in New South Wales alone. The rising interest in organic food and its health, ethical and environmental benefits have also contributed to the popularity of farmers’ markets. In line with their farm-to-table model for selling fresh produce, the markets have also spawned a new breed of stallholder – artisans interested in perfecting their craft, from sourdough bakers and jam and pickle makers, through to silversmiths, spice merchants and seamstresses and tailors of all manner of apparel. Parramatta’s range of weekend markets has grown in number and sophistication to now boast an offering that can be enjoyed all year. From weekly farmers markets, monthly events and quarterly trash and treasures, we’ve done the hard work and uncovered the best markets for you to explore. So, with the warmer weather well and truly upon us, now’s the time to get up early and on the market trail. PARRAMATTA FARMERS MARKETS Centenary Square comes to life every Friday morning with the Parramatta Farmers Markets, an institution that offers more than 50 food, flower and craft stalls. Seasonality is the key here (and that’s a good thing really), with the freshest fruit and vegetables ready to be served up in a ‘made with love’ weekend dish, artisan breads and baked goods, fresh meats, organic pantry staples, and flowers and plants, all sourced from the Sydney basin and regional NSW. As it’s a weekday market, it’s worth heading there on your lunch break to feast on the many cultural flavours on offer from the fantastic variety of food trucks and stalls. Open every Friday from 7:30am to 2:30pm, Centenary Square, Parramatta. For more information visit their Facebook page MARKET BY THE RIVER Launched in partnership with City of Parramatta Council in 2006, Market by the River was developed as a community initiative and is held on the first Saturday of every month in Halvorsen Park. Given its location, the river offers a beautiful backdrop for browsing through stalls, enjoying the delicious food and drink on offer, and catching up with friends and family. They’ve also teamed up with Addventageous to offer a bike valet service, available by gold coin donation, so you can browse the market while your bike is being looked after. 1st Saturday of the month from 9am to 2pm, Halvorsen Park, 40 Seamist Avenue, Ermington. For more information visit www.marketbytheriver.com.au