MORE than 20 years ago, twelve stallholders gathered in Uitsig Road, Durban North, for the first ever Golden Hours Market.
The vision of the market was to raise funds for the school, create a safe environment for the community to enjoy and shop, a playground to be used by market customers and the school’s special-needs learners and also to create awareness of their special-needs children, many of whom still visit now as adults and still feel welcome.
Now in its 24th year, the market boasts approximately 100 stallholders which tick nearly every box on a shopaholic’s list.
Lyn Wilson, who manages the market, worked at Golden Hours school for 30 years. She retired four years ago, but continues to run the market to raise funds for the school.
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“It’s the oldest market in Durban North and has been supporting the school since its inception. This market has a heart of its own with something for everybody,” she said.
“Not only do people come to shop but also to meet with friends, enjoy delicious food, relax in our shady tea and beer garden and listen to the entertainment every Sunday.
“We have even watched social clubs forming. It’s really a chilled Sunday vibe,” said Wilson.
The market sports a perfect balance between craft and commercial.
Stalls vary from clothing stalls, plants, antiques, handcrafts, a craft beer and gin stall, a variety of affordable food stalls for all tastes, including vegetarian and Portuguese, charity stalls such as Kingdom Cats and The Broom Closet and so much more.
“We also have two massage therapists – the parlour is done very discreetly – as well as a hairdresser who started a week ago,” she said.
“There is lots for the children to do in the large play area with trampolines and equipment as well as tractor rides for hire. It which is also rented out for parties. Parking is never an issue as there is ample off-road parking,” she said.
“Golden Hours Market is so much more than people coming in to buy and sell things. Each stallholder has a story of their own. There’s a stall that supports a child-headed household. People have grown in their trades – families have food on the table. People even come here to celebrate birthdays,” said Wilson.
“I am grateful for all the support we have received from traders and customers over the years, and it has been wonderful to see how many people’s lives have been favourably affected. I love it when people refer to the market as their happy place,” she added.
She encouraged locals to visit the market on a Sunday or the Moonlight Market on a Friday night.
“Come support, use the facilities and feel comfortable and at home. Pets are welcome as long as they’re on leashes and not aggressive,” she said.
To book the venue for events or team-building, WhatsApp Wilson on 083 262 3693.
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