Creating value and forming a community: the culture of going to the market never really goes out of fashion. Whether we visit a market as a tourist or as a regular returner, there is always something mystical in store for us. The vegetables are greener, the flowers are more fragrant and people are more direct. A selection of the most interesting markets in Eastern Europe.
Farmers’ Market | Gdansk
One of Poland’s most prominent farmers’ markets moves twice a week into the hall of the Garnizon House of Culture and Events. More than forty primary producers expect buyers with their own products, and the number and diversity of vendors have only been growing for years. The range available includes backyard products and alternative organically grown vegetables, fruits, artisanal pastries, smoked fish and cheeses. The aim of the organizers is for the customers to get to know the producers as well as the products and to promote the local gastronomic specialties. For the latter, the market also occasionally hosts culinary workshops and gastronomic performances.
Szimpla Farmers’ Market | Budapest
The Szimpla Kert, where about fifty primary producers welcome those interested on Sundays, conjures up a touch of unadulterated countryside in the middle of the city center. At the Szimpla Farmers’ Market, all producers sell chemical-free and home-grown products. Visitors can enjoy a varied menu, including fresh food, homemade rose syrups, soaps, truffle specialties and spices. When the market is open, a backyard buffet breakfast is prepared upstairs and is made with ingredients from the producers. Under the Common Cauldron program, representatives of Non-profit organizations prepare lunch each time, which can be tasted by anyone who wants to support them. There is live music during the market and sometimes exciting children’s programs await the younger visitors. At the moment, due to the pandemic situation, the weekend markets are not organized, but we hope they get back on track soon.
Black Lake Market | Transylvania
The Black Lake Market is more than a market, as the saying goes: what’s not here, doesn’t exist. The fair with a long history is held every six months in an area of several hectares near Negreni, where, for three days, watches, carpets, sandals or even stuffed golden jackals change hands. The market consists of two parts, one for consumer goods in line with current trends and the other for flea market lovers. The charm of the market comes not only from unusual antiques, the old women and men in folk costumes themselves evoke the romance of another world. The market has attracted so much interest in recent years that the surrounding towns have already become involved in the reception of guests. On the weekend of the market, a real festival atmosphere is raging, at the closing hours of the dance houses lasting until the morning, the first producers are already preparing the treasures on their tables waiting for the new owner.
Old Market Hall | Bratislava
The other oldest market of the selection is the 110-year-old Old Market Hall, which, refuting its age, is not only the venue for traditional farmers’ markets, but also offers many cultural events and services. In addition to the classic backyard markets, there are opportunities with a unique atmosphere for children and adults. The mini oasis built in the Market Hall building is made up of plants that people got bored of or have just grown out of their previous home and “long for a community”. In the marketplace oasis, tea tastings, handcraft workshops and book clubs are often held. Every Saturday, here is Slovakia’s largest book exchange, the Bratislava Book Market, which also offers posters, various graphic design and vinyl records. The varied programs also include a children’s theater and community cooking, where those interested can learn about the traditional dishes of the minorities living in the region.
Liliomkert Market| Káptalantóti
The Liliomkert Market is undoubtedly one of the most charming attractions in the Balaton-felvidék. The unbroken reputation is not a coincidence, as in addition to the fairy-tale landscape, we can find quality products here such as lavender goat cheese or ash-baked scones. Besides culinary experiences, you can choose objects that revive the old times from collections of antique dealers and antiquarians. Not only does the market allow shopping, but Liliomkert is also a versatile community place that provides space for direct dialogue between producers and buyers, as well as an opportunity for emerging artists to introduce themselves. That is why we can enrich our lives not only with handicrafts, but also with diversity. The wonder market of Káptalantóti awaits those interested every Sunday of the year.
Farmers’ Market Gdansk | Web | Facebook | Instagram
Szimpla Farmers’ Market | Web | Facebook | Instagram
Black Lake Market | Facebook
Old Market Hall | Web | Facebook | Instagram
Liliomkert Market| Web | Facebook
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