Byron Bay is famous for its beaches, lighthouse and cool cafe culture but another reason tourists flock to this popular region, is to visit the vibrant local markets. The markets are held throughout the Byron Shire on various days throughout the month and comprise the best the region has to offer. From gourmet, locally made and grown food to handcrafted homewares, if you're looking for a unique shopping experience you'll find it here.

Not only are the markets a great day out, they're also an insight into the creative minds of the people of the shire and offer an opportunity to have a chat with the locals about how they produced their products. Of course, Byron Bay offers some of the best coffee and food in the world so it's also a great place to grab a bite to eat!

BANGALOW MARKETS - The Bangalow markets are held at the Bangalow showground just moments from the beautiful township of Bangalow itself. There is parking available within the showgrounds for a small fee of $2. A percentage of profits from the markets goes back into the community. The showgrounds are surrounded by eleven large camphor laurel trees which create a leafy atmosphere with shade from the sun.

There are a huge number of talented stall holders at the Bangalow markets and is definitely a destination you don't want to miss when you visit the area. Stall holders have set up massage tents for those who need a bit of relaxation and the food stalls include locally grown coffee, fresh juices and a huge range of vegan and vegetarian food as well as staples like burgers and hotdogs.

Many visitors come to pick up their supply of handmade beauty products including natural soaps, honey face masks and organic moisturising creams with essential pure oils. It's essential to also stop by the gourmet food stores with honey roasted macadamia nuts, organic coffee and jams and honeys with Australian flavours.

BANGALOW MARKETS IS HELD THE 4TH SUNDAY OF THE MONTH - Check website calendar for more details.

BYRON BAY MARKETS - Held at Butler St Reserve in Byron Bay these markets are a real experience in the energy and creativity of the shire. Fairy wings and rainbow colours are the norm and are worn by stallholders and market visitors alike. A fun day out for the kids too with face painting, candle making and rides and for parents the choice is endless! If you're looking for unique artwork or homewares you've found Byron's own version of an outdoor art gallery with literally hundreds of varieties of local artworks on display.

Enjoy the live music from the featured busker and local bands as you take it all in with delicious coffee and gourmet snack in hand. Trying the local food is definitely a highlight of the journey and often you'll get to try local produce or a unique concoction you haven't had the pleasure of sampling before. A food lovers delight and overall experience for all of the senses!

BYRON BAY MARKETS IS HELD THE 1ST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH & 3RD SUNDAY IN DECEMBER AND JANUARY

BYRON BAY FARMERS MARKET - No true foodie would ever miss the chance to sample local produce and the Byron Bay Farmers Market is renowned for its huge selection of organic and locally grown food. Here you'll find lots of fresh fruit and vegetables as well as delicious meat products. Supporting a local farmers market is not only environmentally responsible it's also delicious and you'll find much of what you need here for the kitchen cupboards.

Fresh baked bread is as good as it gets and goes great with local honey. Byron Bay is well known for its Macadamia oils, nuts and spreads and you can also find delicious garlic-based oils to complement fresh bread as a delicous dipping sauce. Vegetarian options abound with a selection of products like tempeh and locally made cheeses. It may also surprise you to know that you can pick up fresh seafood and Brunswick oysters to create a sumptious feast. Wine too, is on the menu.

Let's not forget the delicious range of desserts and treats. Freshly baked muffins and raw desserts abound along with patisserie-style food. Treat yourself to a taste of the sumptious gourmet food the shire has to offer. The markets are also held at Bangalow behind the Bangalow Hotel.

BYRON BAY FARMERS MARKET IS HELD EVERY THURSDAY

BANGALOW FARMERS MARKET IS HELD EVERY SATURDAY