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Tucked beside the water on the Lower Lakes, Clayton Bay is a peaceful South Australian town, known more by locals than weekend crowds.
But this October long weekend, there is a brand new reason for visitors to pull in, slow down and discover the small waterside community for themselves.
The area’s first Spring Market will take over the Clayton Bay Foreshore on Saturday, October 3, bringing together local artists and community groups for a celebration of the creativity found throughout the town.
The market was founded by Clayton Bay local of 14 years Milly Breward, with support from her friend Caroline Dixon and other members of the community. Milly was inspired by the number of talented makers living locally.
“There has never been anything like the idea of an artisan market,” Milly said.
“We have a huge amount of talent in Clayton Bay, and I just wanted to give them another way of getting their art out there.”
Around a dozen stallholders are expected to attend the inaugural event, with visitors able to browse work from potters, artists, basket makers and upcyclers. The local CFS will also be at the market, using the day as an opportunity to connect with the community and support its recruitment drive.
And with Christmas approaching, Milly said it is also a chance to get an early start on gift shopping while supporting small local creators. Making it the perfect place to find heartfelt, handmade and one-of-a-kind gifts.
For its first year, the focus will remain firmly on handmade goods rather than food stalls, although Milly teased that there is potential for the offering to expand in future years. Visitors won’t have to go far for a bite though, with much-loved spot, The Local Clayton Bay, open throughout the day to fuel market-goers with food and coffee.
While the new market provides the excuse for a road trip, Milly hopes visitors will stick around to see what makes the town itself so unique.
“It is so special … We’ve got our own little quiet bay here, which is fantastic for boating, kayaking and fishing.”
“It’s a great place to find yourself … It’s a great little community we have.”
The market also coincides with the opening weekend of the Clayton Bay Boat Club, meaning there will be plenty of activity on the water throughout the weekend. And while there is plenty happening in Clayton Bay itself, the long weekend offers extra time to venture further through the Lower Lakes and Fleurieu region.
The Strathalbyn Show returns on Monday, October 5, adding another major event to the weekend’s calendar, and giving visitors the option of turning their Clayton Bay day trip into a longer regional escape.
For Milly, shining a light on the wider area is a big part of why the new market came together.
She said there is far more happening across the region than many Adelaide visitors realise and hopes the event encourages people to venture beyond the destinations they already know.
So if you’re in the market for gorgeous handmade crafts or craving a peaceful long weekend escape, Clayton Bay is waiting for you.
Clayton Bay Spring Market
When: Saturday, October 3, 9am–3pm
Where: Island View Dr, Clayton Bay SA 5256, Australia
For more info, keep an eye on the Clayton Bay Spring Market social pages.
