Markets in the 031 – The Musgrave Market supports local
In early 2019, the market took up less than half of the park’s space – it now expands throughout the area.
MARKETS are the lifeblood of every community as they provide a space to connect people and businesses.
From locally grown foods to jewellery, to clothing to handmade goods and crafts, every market has something unique on offer for those supporting local businesses.
Once a month, Berea Mail, Highway Mail and Northglen News will be promoting markets in their area as a way of showcasing some of these markets and showing how you can support your community by buying local.
The Musgrave Market
When: Every Saturday from 09:00 until 14:00
Where: Berea Park on Stephen Dlamini Road
How to get in touch: Follow the market on Facebook – The Musgrave Market – for updates. Prospective vendors can email: themusgravemarket@gmail.com or send a WhatsApp message via
073 625 6725.
IN a picturesque park, set on the tree-lined avenue of Stephen Dlamini (Essenwood) Road, The Musgrave Market has become a popular Saturday morning outing for the Durban community.
Market manager Melissa Ketley said there were just a handful of weekend markets in Durban when this market began – with just a few vendors.
“The Musgrave Market as we know it today started in January 2019. It was a small market with about 20 vendors. In the past few years, we have seen many markets start up around the Durban area,” she said.
Today, The Musgrave Market hosts about 100 vendors each week, including permanent vendors who have been with the market for four years and some vendors who set up their stalls on a week-to-week basis.
Also read: Markets in the 031 – The Shongweni Farmers’ and Craft Market
“I think that is one of the beauties of our market – that we don’t have the exact same vendors. There is always someone new, selling something different every week. And we are always looking for new, interesting stalls to join us,” said Ketley.
With plenty of activities for children to enjoy, families can browse the stalls where vendors sell everything from handmade crafts, clothing, jewellery, plants, books and food, both savoury and sweet, not to mention the preloved section.
What makes this market unique?
The park setting gives The Musgrave Market a relaxed atmosphere.
“We don’t only operate as a marketplace but also a place for people to relax and visit. Something else unique about us is that we cater to a broad range of customers, so we have a wide range of products from the more expensive to cheaper options, as well,” said Ketley.
Live music is another prominent feature with a varied roster of musicians from all around Durban performing at each event.
“Music has become such an integral part of the market for us,” said Ketley.
“You can really tell the difference music makes to a market. There is no better feeling than walking through our colourful gazebos, vibing to a soft guitar riff or watching happy couples dance in the food area together,” she added.
Among the talented musicians to frequent the market are Nathaniel Doorsamy and Ashleigh J.
Also read: Markets in the 031 – uMhlanga Farmer’s Market
Supporting local business
Not only does the market serve the community that visits to shop, browse and soak up the atmosphere but also the small local businesses that sell their wares.
“Markets are such an important place as they give small businesses the space to grow and run their businesses. They give small and online businesses the opportunity to interact with their customers. Many of these businesses cannot afford to open up shops so having this market-selling platform is very important,” she said.
Despite a tough Covid-19 period, Ketley says the market has blossomed, becoming busier than ever.
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