South Melbourne Market Turns 150 Years

The South Melbourne Market is turning the big 150! In 2017, the iconic and much-loved institution is marking this milestone occasion with a jam-packed program of exciting festivities honouring its rich history and vibrant future. Milk Bar Mag is excited to give you a sneak preview of what’s in store for next year.

With yearly attendance rates reaching 4.7 million, the South Melbourne Market is home to 150 stalls selling quality fresh produce, great coffee and cuisines from all around the world – an established meeting place and social hub for the local community and tourists alike.

‘This much-loved inner-city landmark is the quintessential village market. People come not only to buy fresh produce, but also to eat, shop, discover, share and connect. Our community is invited to contribute and celebrate 150 years with us,’ South Melbourne Market manager Ross Williamson says.

To sound in the New Year, the South Melbourne Market will reintroduce traditions of yesteryear with a ‘ringing of the bell’, signalling the opening and closing of trade. Drop in for some live music and a light breakfast at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, 4 January.

The folk at the South Melbourne Market are offering the community a chance to add their own personal contributions to the commemorations. Friends of the market are invited to share stories, anecdotes, photos, drawings, memories, experiences, funny encounters and memorabilia in an initiative called My Market Story. The idea is to capture the community’s passion for the market and preserve its rich legacy for future generations.

Popular summer events, including the South Melbourne Night Market – a cultural feast of street food, market stalls and live music held on Thursday nights throughout January and February – and the Port Phillip Mussel & Jazz Festival – Melbourne’s premier seafood street party in March – will be back, adding to the smorgasbord of social events that underpin the institution’s principles: bringing the community together and offering a great opportunity for people to meet.

Happy birthday South Melbourne Market, Milk Bar Mag looks forward to celebrating 2017 with you.

South Melbourne Market 150 Years
Corner of Cecil and Coventry Streets, South Melbourne
southmelbournemarket.com.au/150-years