The Dorrigo Handmade Christmas Night Markets 2024
Published on 16 December 2024
On Saturday, 14 December, Dorrigo came alive with the festive spirit during the annual Dorrigo Handmade Christmas Night Markets. This year, the markets were bigger and better, supported by Bellingen Shire Council's successful application to the Transport for NSW Vibrant Streets Package – Open Streets Program. This was the third and final event supported by this funding, following the success of the Urunga Spring Fiesta in September and the Belonging Parade in November. Both events transformed our streets into vibrant community spaces, boosting local business and the arts.
The Dorrigo Handmade Christmas Night Markets were no different. With Hickory St, Dorrigo closed off to traffic, the markets showcased over 60 stalls featuring talented local artisans and craftspeople. Attendees explored an array of handcrafted gifts, bespoke decorations, gourmet food, and more, discovering unique treasures while supporting local creators. Food vendors offered an array of delicious delights, including handmade dumplings, wood-fired pizza, fresh pasta, and sweet treats, fuelling the festive atmosphere.
Local soloist Lottie charmed audiences at one end of the market, while mid-north coast duo Thoughts & Prayers entertained with their engaging performances at the other and a surprise flash mob of Zumba performers with Christine, delighted the crowd and added an extra layer of festive entertainment. The children enjoyed a range of craft activities, face painting, and the highly anticipated arrival of Santa, spreading holiday magic throughout the market.
Reflecting the community’s commitment to sustainability, Council also supported the Purple Card Project’s FREE Conscious Christmas Ornament Making workshops through their successful application to the Community Grants Program. Attendees were encouraged to craft their own beautiful, eco-friendly decorations to hang on the tree in time for Christmas.
Mayor Cr Steve Allan expressed his delight at the event's success, stating, "Thanks to Kelsey and Ben from the Handmade Markets team for putting on this beautiful Christmas event, which is so fitting for our village on the plateau. Our community came together for an evening of celebration, sharing in local food and drinks while supporting our vibrant mountain businesses through the purchase of Christmas gifts. It was a heartening display of community spirit and economic support.
He continued, "The Open Streets Program, delivered by Transport for NSW, aims to inject vibrancy into streets across NSW and help create thriving local places that support businesses, creative sectors, and the community through events and activations and it has done exactly that!
The Dorrigo Handmade Christmas Night Markets truly captured the spirit of the season, offering a night filled with fun, music, food, and festive shopping. Thanks to Kelsey Meehan and Ben Garnock from the Handmade Markets team for putting on a vibrant Christmas event and to Dorrigo Chamber of Commerce for their support in showcasing the local businesses on the Plateau.