Every Sunday, rain, hail or shine, Bathurst Street in Hobart comes alive. Local farmers start loading up their vendor stands in the wee hours of the morning preparing for throngs of visitors looking for fresh local produce. And it's this philosophy -- where producers sell their own foodstuffs and wares -- that allows you to meet your farmer. And that's Tasmania in a nutshell. It's a small island covered in verdant land where many a meal is made farm to table. It's never been a fad here; it's just a way of life. And that lifestyle is on full display at the Farm Gate Market.
The produce on display at the Farm Gate Market changes with the harvesting seasons. Every Sunday, it's a celebration of what Mother Earth provides and it's on full colourful display. And it's these changing seasons that inspire producers to bring the freshest and most innovative treats.
Vendors set up small tables so that you can sample some of their food. You'll be able to peruse fresh produce alongside seafood, meat products, olive oil, boutique spirits, local ciders, peculiar herbs, artisanal bread, handmade cakes, fresh doughnuts, locally produced jellies and jams, inventive mustard spreads, cold-pressed coffees, tea blends and honeys. Be sure to bring a basket as you'll definitely be filling up your pantry after tasting samples from each vendor.
The first Street performance of the day happens at 8:30 AM. That's when the Sunday market kicks off with the ringing of a giant brass bell. And they're off! Regulars often line up well before the starting bell to get to their favourite vendors before the rest of Hobart.
A family-friendly event, the market buzzes with street performers, face painters, buskers and musicians. The entire area crackles with energetic conversation under the early morning sun. Well, the market is open no matter the weather so the sun may not even be shining.
The market is open from 8:30 AM until 1 PM on Bathurst Street between Murray and Elizabeth Streets. The popularity of the market has created a little bit of a parking conundrum. But the city of Hobart has decided to open up the Central Car Park to coincide with the opening hours of the market. You'll find the entrance of the car park on Melville Street with a walkway that takes you right to the heart of the action. Occasionally, the city runs a promotion where the Central Car Park is free on Sundays but normally you'll be paying a nominal fee for an entire day of parking. You may be able to find free parking on the surrounding streets.
Toilet facilities can be found in the Hobart Central Car Park right in the middle of Bathurst Street. You can also find baby changing facilities in the carpark at the Bathurst Street entrance.
The entire Farm Gate Market is smoke-free and plastic bag-free. You are encouraged to bring your own bag or basket and reusable bags are available at the Farm Gate HQ. You may also purchase bags from individual vendors. Prices range from $2 to $10.
The Farm Gate Market is a family-friendly event but you might have to leave your dog behind. City ordinance does not allow pets at the farmer's market, but you can tie up your dog near the LINC Library at the top of the market. There are plenty of public water bowls in the little doggie area.
