The Blak Markets is a welcoming space for everyone to engage with the oldest continuing culture in the world. Visitors can enjoy traditional performances and ceremonies in addition to perusing an eclectic range of stalls selling a variety of art, homewares, jewellery, fashion, children’s clothing, textiles, woodwork, woven goods, plants and ethically sourced bushfoods. The final market for the year will be held over two days in The Rocks, on Saturday December 16 and Sunday December 17.
With more than 20 stalls to check out, it's the perfect place for meaningul gift shopping. You can expect tasty homemade baked goods created with Indigenous bush tucker and spices, quality Indigenous skincare products, and native plants for the garden from IndigiGrow.
The Blak Markets is a ceremony and a way for me to connect with mob, be grounded...
The market is always held between two alternating locations: the picturesque Bare Island in Bidjigal Country, La Perouse (located within the Kamay-Botany Bay National Park, the island is usually only open for tours, which makes a visit to the Blak Markets all the more special), and on Tallawoladah Lawn in The Rocks with stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
"The Blak Markets is a ceremony and a way for me to connect with mob, be grounded, practice culture and establish a sense of belonging while I am so far away from my traditional lands in Far North Queensland," says stallholder Taritah Jayne from Tarri Jayne Collective.
"At the Blak Markets you will find the storytellers, dancers, hunters, gatherers, nurturers, healers, and elders, along with the next generation who are continuing the skill of trading like our ancestors did. It is a unique space that ensures stall holders experience inclusivity and a sense of belonging.”
The lively markets are organised and run quarterly by First Hand Solutions Aboriginal Corporation, with a mission to close the gap for Aboriginal people. The Blak Markets is a social enterprise that provides Indigenous artists, designers and small business owners a live marketplace to showcase their wares. This distinctive event allows locals to connect directly with artists and make ethical purchases of authentic Aboriginal products.
Get your coins ready if you're heading to La Perouse – entry to the Blak Markets on Bare Island is $2.50 for adults, and free for children under five. Meanwhile, entry to the markets in The Rocks is free.
You can get more information on upcoming markets at blakmarkets.com.au and the Facebook page.
