Words by Angelica-Hazel Toutounji
The Wayville Showgrounds will once again house Adelaide’s original and much loved market for makers, Bowerbird. Showcasing the best in Australian design from established brands, return favourites and fresh new talent, their upcoming event is tipped to be unforgettable, with Bowerbird celebrating its 15th year running.
Taking place from the 22nd to 24th of November market goers can experience workshops, tasty treats and the chance to purchase a diverse range of artisan products direct from the makers. With the festive season fast approaching this upcoming market will also welcome a special guest- Santa, much loved by children and adults alike and the very definition of an artisan toy creator!
Attendees are encouraged to drop off their letters to Santa through out the weekend and Sunday visitors have the opportunity to meet him in his workshop. Children can take photos with Santa for a gold coin donation and all proceeds go to Catherine House, a South Australian charity supporting homeless women.
Visitors will also be spoilt with the opportunity to win prizes throughout the day through a Golden Ticket system, 2-for-1 Friday night entry as well as special deals, promotions and gifts with purchase from many of the designers. This upcoming market will be the perfect social outing, with a fantastic opportunity to score yourself a unique bargain before the festive madness hits.
“November’s event will mark a major milestone in Bowerbird’s story and highlight how important the event continues to be for Australian designers and makers,” Director Peggy Byrne said.
“With over 1300 brands showcased at Bowerbird since 2009, we have been crucial to the growth of the small creative business community, and I am grateful to our audience for their fantastic support over the years.”
Established in 2009, Bowerbird emerged as a much needed space to house designers and showcase their talents in a face to face format. At the time there were very few options for emerging designers to sell their wares. The exception being community festivals or school fetes or undertaking the financial burden of opening up a physical store. Thus, Bowerbird entered the market at a critical time and forged a path for designers from all different categories, cultivating a unique space for sellers and buyers alike.
Since its inception Bowerbird has been home to over 1300 brands and provided a crucial Launchpad for Australian creatives to grow, foster community and be seen. Whilst the market provides the perfect atmosphere to get your creative juices flowing and be inspired by talented individuals, it also provides a much needed platform to support local businesses.
With so many businesses making tough decisions about whether to forge on or pack up shop, Bowerbird is the saving grace to sellers whilst providing the consumer with the perfect place to shop small. Australia is a thriving hub for arts and culture, however if we want this industry to continue to bloom, we need to support the makers to keep on making. So mark your calendars for a fun weekend of festivities at Bowerbird, you wont be disappointed.
WHAT: Bowerbird Market
WHEN: November 22nd-24th, Friday 4-9pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am-5pm
WHERE: Wayville Pavilion, Adelaide Showground
For more information and tickets, click here.