Business Report

Tantrum-free weekends: The ultimate guide to Johannesburg’s best family markets

Debashine Thangevelo|Published
The 4 Ways Farmers Market is the ideal spot to enjoy live music while you browse thrifted finds or treat yourself to a fantastic variety of food.

The 4 Ways Farmers Market is the ideal spot to enjoy live music while you browse thrifted finds or treat yourself to a fantastic variety of food.

Image: Supplied

Whether it is raining or the sun is shining, there is one weekend pastime that consistently leaves an impression. Regardless of the city, if a market is nearby, you likely visit often or as frequently as your schedule and finances permit.

To be honest, markets are my kryptonite. Looking back to when I moved to Johannesburg more than ten years ago, I still remember being introduced to the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein by a friend.

Waiting in line, I was visually feasting on every dish, my senses utterly captivated by the array before me.

The food was undeniably superb, satisfying every possible whim, yet it was the vibrant energy of the place that made the experience truly unforgettable.

The venue hummed with the vibrant spirit of companions and relatives huddled together, enjoying robust dishes and spirited dialogue.

In the years since, a variety of new markets have surfaced, yet the Neighbourgoods Market remains a staple. Now rebranded as The Playground, it continues to welcome visitors every Saturday from 9am to 6pm. 

I view visiting this spot as something of a quintessential rite of passage.

If you are looking to explore a diverse range of crafts, the 4 Ways Farmers Market is the perfect destination.

If you are looking to explore a diverse range of crafts, the 4 Ways Farmers Market is the perfect destination.

Image: Supplied

Meanwhile, these are your options in the city: 

4 Ways Farmers Market

If the name rings a bell, you likely remember it as the Fourways Farmers Market, which used to be located across from Montecasino when it started in 2013. 

Since 2020, it has found a new home at Taroko Farm in Modderfontein. 

This pet-friendly and family-oriented destination stands out with its curated flower market, open-air bars, and live acoustic music. It also boasts an impressive variety of artisanal food, featuring more than 100 different vendors.

And there is little chance of claustrophobia as it offers four distinct spaces: The Family Lawn, The Castle Lawn, The Brutal Fruit Garden and The Culinary and Coffee Experience. 

It’s open every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 6pm.

Don't be a couch potato this winter, grab your friends or the family and head out to the Prison Break Market.

Don't be a couch potato this winter, grab your friends or the family and head out to the Prison Break Market.

Image: File

Prison Break Market

This venue, which first opened its doors in Glenferness, Midrand, in November 2019, has since become a regular fixture across various social media platforms.

It has become a regular haunt for locals. 

The venue was designed to close the divide between temporary pop-up events and conventional retail malls.

This industrial-chic setting provides an ideal getaway, blending fine dining, hands-on experiences, handcrafted beverages and artistic works.

To explore, visitors have a selection of themed sheds at their disposal, including The Crafters Shed, The Pourhouse, Harvest Pantry & The Yard Eatery, Create Lonehill, and the Mijump Indoor Trampoline Park.

The venue is also welcoming to canine companions, as long as they remain on their leashes.

Operating on a strictly cashless basis, this location is perfect for those who prefer to "tap and go”.

While it is busy on the weekend, it is open from Wednesday.

The Field Market

Situated within Sandton's Field & Study Park, this charming outdoor market takes place on the second Saturday of every month.

It is a family-oriented occasion where guests can explore a carefully chosen array of artisanal foods, handcrafted items, and distinctive craft stalls.

The serene atmosphere instantly creates a sense of relaxation for all visitors. Live acoustic performances further enhance the market's appeal.

Kids particularly enjoy the variety of activities available, including pony rides and nature scavenger hunts.

This inclusive venue is both wheelchair-friendly and welcomes well-behaved dogs, provided they are on leashes.

Rosebank Sunday Market

True to its name, this market takes place every Sunday. Situated on the Level 4 rooftop of Rosebank Mall, this energetic hub hosts more than 200 different stalls.

Patrons can explore a vast range of international dishes while browsing through a selection of handcrafted items, jewellery, and classic vintage apparel.

It provides the ideal setting to simply relax and enjoy your day.

Victoria Yards

Every first Sunday of the month, this Lorentzville destination transforms into a vibrant hub featuring creative exhibitions and artisanal goods.

In addition to the various retail booths, visitors can sample a wide range of cuisine, including pizza, vegetarian dishes, and local favourites like fish and chips, which many consider the best in the area.