Byron Markets are stepping in to support local stallholders this Easter long weekend, with organisers urging locals and visitors to turn out and back small businesses following the cancellation of Bluesfest.
With hundreds of visitors already in Byron Bay for what would traditionally be one of the region’s busiest weekends, the markets are positioning themselves as an alternative hub of activity, bringing together local makers, food vendors and travelling traders who would otherwise have been part of the festival.
Many stallholders who had planned to trade at Bluesfest will instead be spread across three key events — the Beachside, Twilight and Community markets — creating what organisers say will be a vibrant and diverse offering across the long weekend.
Community Market Coordinator and Byron Markets Assistant Manager Natwah Petruszka said the response from stallholders and the community highlighted the strength of the local economy and the importance of grassroots support.
“Byron Markets has always been about community and this weekend is a chance to really show up for the people behind the stalls,” she said.
“With so many visitors already here, we’re encouraging everyone to come down, explore the markets, enjoy the atmosphere and support the small businesses that make this region so special.”
The markets will feature a mix of established local favourites and visiting traders typically seen on the Bluesfest circuit, offering everything from handmade fashion and artisan goods to street food and unique retail finds.
The Easter program begins today, Friday 3 April with the Byron Beachside Market at Main Beach from 8am to 3pm, showcasing locally made products under the “make it, bake it, sew it, grow it” ethos, alongside live music and food stalls.
On Saturday evening, the Byron Twilight Market will transform Railway Park into a night market from 4pm to 9pm, combining food, retail and live entertainment in a more relaxed, festival-style setting.
The weekend will conclude with the Byron Community Market on Sunday 5 April, returning to Main Beach from 8am to 3pm, with further live music and a broad mix of stallholders catering to both locals and tourists.
Beyond the immediate economic boost, organisers say the markets play a broader role in supporting the region, operating as a not-for-profit social enterprise that reinvests income into community services and programs.
With the absence of Bluesfest leaving a gap in the local events calendar, Byron Markets are hoping the Easter line-up will not only support traders in the short term, but also reinforce the region’s reputation as a destination for creative industries, local enterprise and community-led events.
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