Enterprise Dunedin media release
George Street to host new central city street market
(Dunedin, 26 November) An exciting new event is set to transform the beautifully redeveloped central city into a vibrant and buzzing bazaar.
Retailers, stallholders, eateries, food trucks, artisans and performers will come together for the inaugural George Street Market on 8 February next year.
This new event is the next evolution of the popular Thieves Alley Market, which took place in The Octagon and surrounding streets.
The George Street Market will be held instead, utilising the fabulous, redeveloped George Street area. Part of the street will become pedestrian-only, so attendees can shop and peruse the stalls and stores throughout the day at their leisure.
Adding to the excitement is a slew of international circus performers bringing their unique talents to the market. These world-class performers will be announced at a later date.
Enterprise Dunedin Destination Manager Sian Sutton says the market is a part of a recent reimagining of events for the city alongside the new Christmas in the Garden event on 30 November and an expansion of Chinese New Year celebrations in partnership with our visitor sector operators and venues.
“Having a broad spectrum of quality events in Dunedin has the potential to turn the city into a year-round destination, making it a vibrant place for residents and visitors alike,” she says.
“Thieves Alley was known for bringing thousands of people through its stalls and we expect the George Street Market to be equally as popular.”
Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich says George Street is a beautiful space and the ideal home for an event of this nature.
“As a part of the upgrade of George Street we always envisioned activating this space to the benefit of the community, and the George Street Market is the perfect event to start with,” he says.
“It’s an exciting new addition to our events line-up and has the potential to be a real annual draw card for the city. We see this event as an opportunity to celebrate our local and regional creative community as well providing a boost to our retail and hospitality precincts with big crowds expected. It is a true collaboration between council, stallholders, and businesses.
“I expect the market will be a real hit with businesses, locals, and visitors.”
There is still space for stallholders to apply to take part, with applications closing 15 December 2024.
