Markets in the 031 – The Paddock Flea Market offers family fun
Set on the sidelines of the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, this is a market like no other.
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.
The Paddock Market
When: On race days
Where: Greyville Racecourse, 150 Avondale Road, Gate 8
How to get in touch: Follow the market on Facebook – The Paddock Flea Market at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse – for updates. Prospective vendors can email: PaddockAtGreyville@gmail.com or send a WhatsApp message via 076 300 8634 or 082 801 0845.
ON the sidelines of the race track, The Paddock Market is focused on supporting local vendors and creating a safe, family environment.
Among their regular vendors are food stalls and a range of cuisine and clothing stalls. The market also supports the disabled and homeless communities.
“We have various kinds of food, including Thai food and Indian food, although, our food vendors vary. We try to have a good mix. We have had traditional African cuisine, as well – which is something we would like to promote more,” said market founder Brace Ramnunan.
Also read: Markets in the 031 – The Musgrave Market supports local
Ramnunan, who was the chairperson of the Stables Representative Traders Community (STRC), said the Paddock Flea Market offers vendors a chance to showcase their wares in a similar setting. He and his wife, Suraya, created The Paddock Market after The Stables Market shut down.
“We used to trade at The Stables Market and saw there were a lot of inquiries where we noticed that the general public was missing it. We are trying to recreate that environment,” explained Ramnunan.
He said the much-loved Stables Market was known for its mix of localised products, a secure environment for the family and affordable prices – all features Ramnunan has kept in mind for The Paddock Market.
“We try to keep the cost of everything as low as we can. With the stables, affordability and convenience were key, and we aim to deliver the same with our market,” he said.
Creating a safe space for families is a high priority for Ramnunan.
“We wanted to create a safe environment where a family can have an outing. At the racecourse, there is the opportunity for children to watch the races, and adults can browse the best arts and crafts on offer. There is also a fantastic kids’ zone where children are supervised and parents can leave children to have fun while they shop,” said Ramnunan.
Also read: Markets in the 031 – The Shongweni Farmers’ and Craft Market
He added that The Paddock Market has a front-row seat to the racecourse action.
“There’s an electric atmosphere on race day. Even the vendors participate in taking bets – it’s an exciting feeling when you can put a couple of rands down and try your luck to see if your horse wins,” said Ramnunan.
And if the races don’t strike your fancy, how about taking centre stage for karaoke?
“The Paddock Market is also promoting a karaoke concept – to bring in the family element which our market is all about,” concluded Ramnunan.
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