The best winter markets in South Africa for food, fire & local finds

When the mercury drops, South Africa’s markets turn up the heat. Think steaming mugs of coffee, woodfire aromas in the air, and rows of stalls bursting with baked treats, preserves, and handmade crafts.

Whether you’re road-tripping through the mountains or looking for a local weekend escape, these winter-friendly markets bring together everything that makes the colder season worth celebrating.

Elgin Railway Market – Elgin, Western Cape

Inside a converted apple warehouse, the Elgin Railway Market offers a warm embrace with its steampunk décor and indoor fire pits. The market buzzes with live music, artisanal food, and the occasional arrival of the Ceres steam train, drawing families and couples alike. Winter highlights include freshly pressed apple cider, hearty breakfasts, and baked goods you’ll want to take home.

Irene Village Market – Pretoria

Held under ancient oaks on the grounds of the Big Red Barn, the Irene Village Market is a winter weekend tradition. Expect soft folk music, a patchwork of crafts and winter garments, and delicious homemade treats. Grab a cup of coffee and a piping-hot roosterkoek while you browse the handmade ceramics, preserves, and leather goods.

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Neighbourgoods Market – Cape Town

Cape Town’s trendiest indoor food hub doesn’t shy away from the cold. The Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill comes alive with bold winter flavours and buzzing crowds. Slurp on a bowl of steaming ramen, chase it down with glühwein or rich hot chocolate, and browse gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, and fashion finds between DJ sets.

Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market – Durban

Just outside Durban, this relaxed Saturday market blends a laid-back vibe with country-style comfort. Shongweni’s forested setting makes it feel worlds away from the city. Come for the sourdough toasties, hearty curries, and cinnamon pancakes—and stay warm around the communal bonfire. There’s also plenty of fresh produce, pet treats, and live music.

Oranjezicht City Farm Market – Cape Town

A visit to OZCF Market is about more than shopping—it’s about community, seasonal eating, and supporting over 65 local producers of fresh produce, free-range meat, cheese, and sustainable seafood. With sea views, good music, plenty of onsite eats for all diets, and free entry, it’s a wholesome winter experience in the heart of the V&A.

The Boeremark – Silverton, Gauteng

A Pretoria institution, the Boeremark opens before sunrise and thrives on tradition. Locals come wrapped in scarves and beanies for a dose of nostalgia and comfort. Think farm butter on warm vetkoek, freshly churned amasi, and hot soup served in enamel mugs. It’s a no-frills market rooted in culture and flavour.

Harkerville Saturday Market – Garden Route

Between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, the Harkerville Market feels like a forest hideaway. In winter, woodfires crackle, locals sell hearty breakfasts and spicy samosas, and kids run free. Artisans offer everything from knitwear to hand-carved décor, while the atmosphere invites slow wandering with a cup of something warm in hand.

Root44 Market – Stellenbosch

Set in the heart of the Winelands with mountain views all around, Root44 is a stylish indoor market offering global street food, local wines, live music, and plenty of space for the whole family. The upstairs Wine Emporium adds a touch of luxury with wine tastings, art, oysters, and a buzzing sports bar. Open weekends, it’s a vibrant winter outing, come rain or shine.

Market @ The Sheds – Pretoria, Gauteng (currently closed for winter)

A vibrant inner-city market in Pretoria, Market @ The Sheds blends food, art, fashion and live music in a trendy urban warehouse at 012Central. Expect kombi tacos and local bands and DJs spinning in the courtyard. Usually held on the first Saturday of the month, the market is currently on a winter break and returns on 4 October 2025.

Crossways Village Market – Gqeberha

Set in the hills near Gqeberha, Crossways Village Market brings a warm country vibe with live music, food trucks, and fresh farm produce. Kids can enjoy pony rides while parents browse local crafts or relax with a drink. The market is family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and welcomes leashed dogs.

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