Markets
The 10 best markets in Johannesburg for food, crafts, and weekend vibes in 2026
Johannesburg has a way of turning an ordinary Saturday or Sunday into a full day out. You arrive “just to browse,” then you blink, and you are carrying a bag of handmade earrings, a new hot sauce you absolutely did not need, and a snack you swear you will recreate at home. You will not.
Markets have always been part of how this city moves. They are where Jozi shows off its small businesses, its cultures, its flavours, and its love of a good bargain. In 2026, that scene is thriving, from polished rooftop strolls in Rosebank to creative precincts in the inner city and community hubs that feel like a neighbourhood block party.
If you are looking for the best markets in Johannesburg for food and crafts, these ten are the ones locals keep going back to.
1. Rosebank Sunday Market: the rooftop classic that still delivers
Some markets feel like a new discovery. Rosebank Sunday Market feels like a tradition. It sits on the rooftop at Rosebank Mall, and the mix is exactly what you want for an easy Sunday: crafts, fashion, antiques, and plenty of food traders.
According to the market’s own information for traders, the market opens at 9am, and trading winds down in the late afternoon. That timing makes it a great one to do before a lunch booking or to turn into lunch itself.
If you are shopping for gifts, this is one of the easiest places to find something that looks thoughtful, even if you bought it at the last minute.
2. Bryanston Organic and Natural Market: where “healthy” still tastes good
Bryanston is the market you take your mum to, your wellness friend to, and your picky foodie cousin to. It is deeply rooted in the idea of conscious living, with a strong focus on natural products, handcrafted goods, and a calmer outdoor atmosphere that makes you slow down a bit.
The market confirms it is open every Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 3pm. It is also linked to the Michael Mount Waldorf School as a registered trust, which adds a meaningful layer to the experience. You are not just shopping; you are supporting a community structure behind the scenes.
This is the one for organic produce, pantry staples, beautiful crafts, and that feeling of being surrounded by people who brought their own bags on purpose.
3. The Playground in Braamfontein: Jozi’s Saturday energy in one place
Braamfontein weekends have their own personality, and The Playground leans into that fully. It is the return of the famed Neighbourgoods venue, now operating as The Playground by Play Braamfontein.
The official site sets out the rhythm clearly: every Saturday from 11am to 7pm. Entry is free from 11am to 12pm, then it is R20 payable at the door by card only, and children under 12 enter free. It is a cashless venue, so plan for tap and go.
This is the market for people who want food, music, and a crowd that feels like the city is having fun again.
4. Fourways Farmers Market: picnic lawns and a full day outdoors
If your idea of a good market includes sprawling lawns, a long wander between stalls, and plenty to eat, Fourways Farmers Market is built for that.
The market’s own FAQ lists its address at Taroko Farm in Norfolk Lane, Modderfontein, Johannesburg, with operating hours of Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 6pm. It is positioned as an outdoor experience with food, shopping, and crafts, and it is the kind of place where you can arrive hungry and stay longer than you planned.
Bring a blanket, bring sunscreen, and go with a group. It is very easy to turn this into a whole day.
5. The Linden Market: the curated one you plan your calendar around
The Linden Market is the one that feels like an event, because it is. It is seasonal, it is curated, and people tend to arrive with a plan and leave with bags.
For 2026, the market lists multiple editions and dates, hosted at the Botanical Gardens in Emmarentia. It also notes gate hours of 9:00am to 4:30pm, with ticketing information that includes R60 per person and free entry for kids under 12.
This is the market for high-quality local goods, fashion, design, and food in one of the city’s loveliest outdoor settings.
6. Victoria Yards First Sunday: art, food and a community heartbeat
Victoria Yards in Lorentzville has become one of those places that makes you feel proud of Joburg’s creativity. It is a working precinct of studios, makers, and small businesses, and on the first Sunday of every month, except January, it hosts a lively market day.
Victoria Yards also notes that entrance is free, pets on a leash are welcome, and safe parking is available. It is not just a market you visit once. It is one you return to when you want to see what new work artists are putting out and what small food vendors are doing right now.
7. Rosebank Art and Craft Market: your everyday stop for African craft
Not every great market is a weekend-only mission. Rosebank Art and Craft Market is open daily, and it is specifically geared towards African art, sculpture, beading, carvings, and souvenirs.
The market’s own site lists trading hours as Monday to Sunday from 9h00 to 18h00, with public holiday hours from 9h00 to 17h00. If you have visitors in town or you are hunting for something distinctly African, this is one of the most reliable places to go because it is always there.
8. Prison Break Market: the “choose your own adventure” market
Prison Break Market in Glenferness has built a reputation as a family day out that offers variety across multiple spaces. The market’s official site notes it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, that entrance is free, and that it is a cashless market where vendors have card machines.
It is also dog-friendly, with some venue-specific exceptions noted by the market. The best way to tackle Prison Break is to arrive curious rather than strict about a plan. Wander, eat, browse, and let the sheds pull you in.
9. LoCrate Market: Soweto creativity with real local pride
LoCrate Market is about platforming creators. Its official site describes it as a collective passionate about showcasing the best of Soweto’s creative hub, from fashion to art and handmade goods.
This is the kind of market that matters for more than just shopping. It is tied to the local economy and the idea of building visibility for emerging brands. If you want your money to feel like it is staying close to the community, this is a strong place to start.
10. Halaal Goods Market: food and design, with halaal at the centre
Halaal Goods Market is positioned as an artisanal halaal food and design market, with a clear focus on creating a welcoming space for visitors.
On its own site, the market notes that it found a home at the Fox Junction Event Venue in Ferreirasdorp in Johannesburg, and it sets out visitor expectations around halaal compliance and ticketing. If you are looking for a market where halaal is not an afterthought and where food and design sit side by side, this one is worth keeping on your radar.
A quick way to choose the right market for your weekend
If you want the biggest, easiest Sunday outing: go Rosebank Sunday Market.
If you want calm, craft, and conscious shopping: go Bryanston.
If you want music and inner city energy: go The Playground.
If you want a picnic day with lots to eat: go Fourways.
If you want curated shopping and seasonal dates: plan for The Linden Market.
If you want art studios and community vibes: do Victoria Yards First Sunday.
If you want African craft any day of the week: do Rosebank Art and Craft Market.
If you want variety across multiple spaces: do Prison Break.
If you want Soweto creativity front and centre: do LoCrate.
If you want halaal food and design in one place: follow Halaal Goods Market.
Jozi’s markets are not just a trend. They are one of the most honest ways to experience the city. You meet the people making the things, cooking the food, building the brands, and shaping the culture. And you get a very good snack while you are at it.
Also read: 12 must-visit museums in Johannesburg for history and culture in 2026
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