The Yarra Valley is a beautiful place with vineyards, stunning views and artisanal food. Beyond the famous wineries like Punt Road Winery, the region has a busy calendar of local markets and events that give you a taste of the Yarra Valley lifestyle. From weekend farmers’ markets to annual festivals, you can get amongst the culture, meet the locals and try the fresh regional produce, including seasonal fruit and veg.
Local Markets in Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley Farmers Market
One of the biggest and most popular markets in the region, the Yarra Valley Farmers Market is on the 3rd Sunday of every month at Yering Station. This market has been running for years and showcases fresh, local produce, handmade goods and gourmet food. You can find fruits, vegetables, cakes, jams, wines and specialty cheeses. Meet the farmers and producers while you stroll through the beautiful grounds of Yering Station.
Healesville Organic Market
If you’re looking for organic and eco-friendly goodies, the Healesville Organic Market is a must. Open every Saturday morning, this market is all about sustainability and wellness. You’ll find stalls overflowing with fresh organic produce, natural skincare and eco-friendly household items. Plus live music from local performers and hot food to try.
Warburton Community Market
In the beautiful town of Warburton, the Warburton Community Market is a treasure trove of handmade crafts, plants, second-hand goodies and fresh produce. Open the 1st Sunday of the month, this market is a local and tourist favourite, creating a relaxed and friendly vibe. A great place to find unique souvenirs, lifestyle products and handmade bread while taking in the Warburton Valley views.
Kinglake Produce and Artisan Market
Just a short drive from the Yarra Valley, the Kinglake Produce and Artisan Market is famous for its fresh produce and artisan products. On the 4th Sunday of the month, this market has bespoke design pieces, handcrafted home decor and local food. Live music and artisan bread stalls make for a great shopping experience.
St Andrews Market
A bit further away but still accessible from the Yarra Valley, the St Andrews Market is on every Saturday and is one of the most quirky markets in the region. This bohemian market has artisan crafts, clothing, jewelry and a variety of vegan and vegetarian food. A colourful market with a creative vibe, perfect for handmade lovers.
Local Events in Yarra Valley
Grape Grazing Festival
The Grape Grazing Festival is the biggest event in the Yarra Valley. Wine, food, and music, as well as locals, tourists, and wine lovers, all come together. , the festival attracts crowds who want, live music and Yarra Valley winery tours. A celebration of the Yarra Valley’s wine history and its wineries.
Yarra Valley Food and Wine Festival
This festival is all about food and wine. Local wineries, gourmet chefs and artisan producers come together to offer masterclasses, cooking demos and tastings. Over a weekend, the festival attracts crowds who want to taste the region’s best. Indulge in premium wines, food tastings and hands on cooking.
Healesville Music Festival
Music fans shouldn’t miss the Healesville Music Festival, an annual celebration of live music, local talent and community. The festival features folk, jazz and rock music. Family-friendly with food stalls, workshops and activities for kids like bouncy castles and community barbecues.
Yarra Valley Garden Party
The Yarra Valley Garden Party is a springtime event with picnics, live music and garden activities. Families can enjoy the beautiful gardens of the Yarra Valley while tasting wine and gourmet food. Cooking demos, live bands and art exhibitions make it a sensory experience for all ages.
Tesselaar Tulip Festival
Just outside the Yarra Valley in Silvan the Tesselaar Tulip Festival is a visual feast that runs for a month each spring. Fields of tulips as a backdrop for live music, art and international food. Each week has a different cultural theme, Dutch Week or Turkish Week for example, so there’s something for everyone.
Why Visit Yarra Valley Markets and Events
1. Support Local Businesses: Many of these markets and events are small family run businesses. By visiting you’re supporting local farmers, artists and producers.
2. Taste the Fresh: Fresh fruit, vegetables, wine and cheese straight from the source. Markets are a farm-to-table experience like no other.
3. Meet the Locals: Chat to locals, meet the makers and learn about the region’s history.
4. Family Friendly: Many events have activities for kids, face painting, craft workshops and interactive games.
5. One of a Kind: Take home artisanal products, hand made gifts and locally made items you won’t find anywhere else.
Best Time to Visit
When to visit Yarra Valley markets and events depends on what you’re looking for. Spring and summer is for festivals as the weather is warm and sunny and perfect for outdoor activities and garden parties. Autumn is harvest season so it’s a great time to visit the Yarra Valley for grape themed events. Winter has charm with food and wine festivals with warm food and mulled wine.
Tips for Visiting
- Get Here Early: Markets can get busy, so get here early to get first pick of the fresh produce and handmade goods.
- Bring Cash: While many vendors take cards, some still prefer cash especially in rural areas.
- Dress Easy: Wear comfy shoes as you’ll be walking around stalls and outdoor areas.
- Check the Program: Dates and times for markets and events can change so check ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Bring Your Own Bags: Reduce waste by bringing your own shopping bags.
Conclusion
Markets and local events in Yarra Valley are a window into the heart and soul of this special place. From fresh produce at farmers markets to food and wine festivals, there’s always something to do. Plan your visit to live the local lifestyle, connect with the community and soak up the sights, sounds and tastes of Yarra Valley. For an even more local experience, book a Yarra Valley winery tours from Melbourne with Wildlife Tours and get to know the market culture and natural beauty.
FAQs
What are the best markets in Yarra Valley?
Yarra Valley Farmers Market, Healesville Organic Market, Warburton Community Market, Kinglake Produce and Artisan Market
When to visit Yarra Valley’s local events?
Spring and summer for outdoor festivals, autumn for grape themed events, winter for food and wine festivals.
What can I buy at Yarra Valley markets?
Fresh produce, artisan bread, gourmet cheeses, handmade crafts, jewelry, art, plants etc.
Are Yarra Valley events kid friendly?
Yes, many are kid friendly with live music, face painting and interactive workshops for kids.
How do I find out what’s on in Yarra Valley?
Check local tourism websites, follow Yarra Valley events on social media or visit the websites of Yering Station and Healesville Sanctuary.
