THE ‘SUZUKI NIGHT MARKET’
The ‘Suzuki Night Market’ located at Melbourne’s historic Queen Victoria Market, is a plethora of home grown talent. Featuring local artisans, fashion designers, accessories, jewellers, bath & beauty products and home wares. Along with an incredible selection of hawker style food stalls, you can take a delicious trip around the world all under the one roof. However, don’t try to do every country in one night!
The night market is quite different to the day market. Now in its 14th year, it has become a summer tradition that continues to grow and evolve each year and a sister Market in Geelong.
I arrived at 7pm (the week after Christmas) to find the car park full. There were thousands of punters soaking up the lively atmosphere. An eclectic mix of people including families, couples, groups of young people and tourists from all walks of life. There is plenty to do, so arrive early with enough time to have a good look around.
The Queen Vic market prides itself on sustainability. There are 1328 solar panels now covering a third of the market roof. This generates up to 225,000 kilowatts of electricity per year. There is also a water harvesting program which has (so far) reduced the water use by 18%. This water is used to flush the market toilets. There is a strong push to recyclable packaging; recycling bins are located throughout the market to help you make the right choice.
It’s great to see a number of Eco stalls at the night market. One of my favourites is ‘apple green duck’. With its innovative range of funky, well priced, shopping bags designed by Wendy Pollard, founder of Run Scotty Run children’s wear. This may sound a little dull but believe me these bags are fabulous. Made from beautiful natural fibres, the prints are awesome. They may be Wendy’s version of Eco friendly shopping bags but I think they are far cooler than that, perfect for the beach and brilliant for presents.
The fashion stalls are quite varied and offer an excellent selection of clothing and fashion accessories. You will find gorgeous floaty tops and dresses in lightweight cottons and rayons with beautiful embroidery and print detail, similar to the hugely popular label ‘One Season’. Only at a third of the price at stalls such as ‘Code’ and ‘Airllywood’. ‘Global Vintage’ stocks exceptional vintage pieces from all over the world. Ash who owns the stall is a stylish American and on hand to help.
OH and if you're looking for a Tutu, here it is.....
OH and if you're looking for a Tutu, here it is.....
The Hat Stall displays something for everyone, along with great photo opportunities. Everything from the latest trilby, a pretty sunhat and a Rasta style beanie can be found here. The stall owners are relaxed and more than happy for everyone to try on hats to their heart’s content. There are heaps of lovely jewellery stalls. One which really caught my eye for up to the minute styling was Frou Frou designs. They had some of the best earrings I had seen in a long time. For leather accessories check out Nomad. This stall rocks cool handmade leather bags, wallets and wrist bands.
There are stalls who manufacture their own moisturisers and soaps using organic ingredients and essential oils. Stalls that sell funky lamps, lighting and cushions. And stalls which stock a wide variety of treasures from around the world. With over 200 stalls you are sure to be enticed by something.
FOOD, FOOD AND MORE FOOD...
FOOD, FOOD AND MORE FOOD...
My mouth waters just thinking of the extensive range of international styles of food available from the ‘Street Hawker’ style stands. I find it difficult to choose from a menu at the best of times, but this is truly challenging.
I feel so proud of Melbourne and our multiculturalism when I can experience all of these diverse culinary delights in the one place. Here are a handful of the countries or regions your taste buds can visit Korea, Greece, India, Holland, Sicily, Spain, USA, West Africa, Caribbean, Japan, Mexico, South Africa, Italy, Denmark, France, Malaysia and Germany! It would be unfair of me to recommend one as they are all so unique you must see and taste for yourself.
Drinks and entertainment
You won’t go thirsty, with three fully licensed bars dotted around the market. Or try some homemade wines from the European stall holders opposite the main food hall. These lovely people offer tastes of all their fine wares. Try the watermelon wine or grab a bottle of their best for later OR chill out with a fresh juice or yummy fruit smoothie from the ‘Fresh Fruit Stall’ at the high end of the market. For an old fashioned treat, head down the lower side of the market to the Homemade Lemonade Stall.
There are two stages showcasing world music. So if you are lucky enough to secure a seat then sit back and enjoy the show along with all the other sights, smells and sounds.
Last but definitely not least.....massage, reflexology and palm reading!
Last but definitely not least.....massage, reflexology and palm reading!
When your feet are hot and a little dusty and you are full of food what a great time to get your palm read or fortune told. Not your thing? Try one of the lovely massages. It’s a good idea to book in when you arrive to disappointment later. What a peaceful end to a fabulous night...
Check it out it's such a fun night.
Loads of Love
Joey
xxxxx
DETAILS
TIME: 5.30pm to 10pm.
LOCATION: Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne. Enter via Queen, Therry or Peel Streets.
COST: Free Entrance
PARKING: $7 from 5pm to 10.30pm. Enter from Franklin or Queen Street.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: I recommend taking public transport and make a night of it. Go to www.qvm.com.au and click on ‘Suzuki Night Market’ for all details including trams and trains.
NOT RECOMMENDED FOR: Toddlers, small children AND those who don’t have any patience.
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