The Best Markets In Townsville To Check Out This Weekend

19th Dec 2025

Written by:

Kayla Wratten
Freelance Sub-Editor | Urban List Townsville

Got a couple of hours free this weekend? We can't think of any better way to spend them than wandering through Townsville/Gurambilbarra’s local markets. From Friday to Sunday, there's everything from waterfront night markets to crafty pop-ups and island stalls stacked with delicious bites and handmade treasures you didn’t even know you needed. Whether you're keen to load up on fresh produce or pick up a Magnetic Island-inspired artwork, these are the very best markets in Townsville to add to your weekend routine.

Cotters Market

Flinders Street, Townsville City

Townsville’s longest-running market (at over 40 years strong), Cotters Market is a Sunday morning institution. Wander through 150+ stalls bursting with fresh fruit and veg, artisanal products, handcrafted homewares, and unique artwork. It’s the kind of market where you can stock up on groceries for the week and discover a quirky gift (for yourself or a friend) all in one.

When: Every Sunday from 8am to 1pm.

Strand Night Markets

Strand Park, 37-43 The Strand, North Ward

The market stalls at The Strand Night Markets at sunset.
Image credit: Strand Night Markets | Instagram

Evenings are always better by the water, especially when the Strand Night Markets are on. On the first Friday of every month, more than 180 stalls sling artisan goods, street eats and icy drinks along the foreshore, with live music and the sparkling Coral Sea setting the scene. Whether you’re treasure-hunting or just chasing a pretty sunset spot, it’s the perfect place for a laid-back Friday-night stroll.

When: First Friday of the month from 5pm to 9:30pm.

Renegade Handmade Market

Various Locations

A must-do for lovers of all things indie and handcrafted, Renegade Handmade Market brings together 50 to 120 stalls of local makers showcasing jewellery, art prints, ceramics, homewares, plants and quirky gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Usually held on the second Sunday of each month from 8am to 1pm (though dates and locations can change, so keep an eye on their socials), it’s the ideal spot for a morning shop with a coffee in hand.

When: Check the Facebook event page for upcoming dates and locations.

Willows Rotary Sunday Markets

Willows Shopping Centre, Kern Brothers Drive

This suburban market has fresh homegrown produce, arts and crafts, food vendors and entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re picking up a loaf of artisan bread, a plant for the balcony, or just soaking up the community spirit, Willows is a big (with over 100 stalls) and beautiful market to add to your weekly Sunday morning routine. Held by the Townsville Rotary Markets, shopping here is also a great way to show your support for locals.

When: Every Sunday from 7:30am to 11:30am.

Magnetic Island Foreshore Markets

Magnetic Island, Pacific Drive, Horseshoe Bay

A market stallholder holds up an artwork against the backdrop of the Coral Sea on Magnetic Island.
Image credit: Magnetic Island Markets | Facebook

Magnetic Island is just a short ferry ride from Townsville, and the weekly markets along the Horseshoe Bay Foreshore are absolutely worth the journey. Set against stunning ocean views, these markets feature handmade jewellery, island-inspired clothing, local art, fresh produce, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Make a day of it and combine your morning browse with a beach walk or lunch on the island.

When: Every Sunday from 9am to 2pm.

Blak Art Market

Various locations

The Blak Art Markets celebrate First Nations creativity while welcoming stallholders of all kinds, from arts and crafts to plants, cakes and handmade goodies. What makes it so special? You can expect live Indigenous dance, art workshops and storytelling that offers a rich cultural experience alongside your browsing. Run as a fundraiser for Big Eye Theatre, the Blak Art Market gives you a meaningful way to shop local and support the community.