Darwin Markets
Everybody knows the Mindil Beach Markets with the spectacular sunsets, amazing food and entertainment but Darwin locals have other great markets to share.
Early on Saturday morning Parap Village Square awakes to the sounds
of stallholders setting up their wears. Plump golden mangoes sit beside jackfruit, lychees and other tropical delights. The aroma of fresh brewed coffee mixes with the smoke of a charcoal fire where satays begin to sizzle. Market regulars start to arrive to pick up their weekend breakfast and the day begins.
As well as food and produce there is a wide range of goods on offer. Pottery, jewellery and clothing stalls line the narrow laneway where the sounds of acoustic music will lure you to explore further. Around every corner there is more to see, feel and hear. Truck tarps reinvented as hard-wearing hats, tyres sculpted into wild animals and scrap metal that has been skilfully crafted into works of art. This is a great opportunity to collect a memento, a hand painted post card or even handcrafted jewellery.
At the Rapid Creek Farmer’s Market you’ll experience an amazing array of organic and tropical produce grown in Darwin’s rural area. Stall holders turn the small shopping complex into a sea of colour as locals do their weekly grocery shop.
On offer are all sorts of fruit and vegetables including wombok, kangkong, buk choy, fresh ginger, okra and beans. There’s also tasty chutneys, jams and local honey. You’ll find fresh seafood, meat and homemade tofu. The air if full of rich aromas, noise and excitement. Take it all in as you relax in the outdoor dining area while being serenaded by talented local musicians.
Nightcliff Markets
Set within the shady Nightcliff Village, these markets are stacked full 
of textiles, fine jewellery, art and other nik naks. As you cruise the narrow passageways, you'll discover beautifully made art and crafts, hand-made leather goods and wood carvings. Of course, local farmers have their freshest product beautifully displayed in colourful rows. Many have prepared the fruit so you can simply buy a container of sliced mango, dragonfruit, paw paw, or jackfruit and eat it while you shop.
A visit to the markets wouldn't be complete without a delicious meal. The vast array on offer will satisfy everyone's taste. From burgers to biryani, spring rolls to roti wraps, vegan to halal, the variety is very enticing. Enjoy one of the exotic coffees on offer or make up a fruit juice combination to call your own. You won't go hungry. Sit a while to enjoy your meal as the kids entertain themselves at the centrally located playground.
Local musicians create a fun festival vibe while nearby bright summer clothes, sarongs and hats flutter in the cool breeze. Have your tarot read, get a massage or purchase a second-hand book. If you run out of time, Nightcliff Markets operate each Sunday of the year.