Every time you buy from a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance. By shopping local you are creating jobs, keeping money in the local economy, nurturing a sense of community, and helping your friends and neighbours thrive.
Plus, it’s just so much nicer than heading into a supermarket or department store.
The Gold Coast hinterland is home to many fantastic local produce, art, and craft markets.
It’s getting to the pointy end of the year, so consider this the nudge you might need to start your holiday shopping from one of these local gems.
Mudgeeraba Village Markets
Local hinterland makers, bakers, and crafters sell their creations at the Mudgeeraba Memorial Hall every second Sunday of the month.
Upcoming dates are 10 November and 8 December 9am-1pm, and the charming indoor venue makes it rain-proof!
Springbrook Mountain Markets
The famous Springbrook Fudge Shop plays host to an eclectic mix of wares every fourth Sunday of the month.
Upcoming dates are 24 November and 22 December.
Corellas Run
This delightful street-side garden stall has a cult following in the hinterland, with people travelling to 91 Hardys Road in Mudgeeraba each weekend to grab their fresh locally grown produce for the best prices in town.
Gold Coast Hinterland Artisan Market
Twice a year, a group of talented local artisans comes to the Bill Deacon Pavilion at the Mudgeeraba Showgrounds to sell their wares. The markets take place in autumn and spring each year.
Beechmont Markets
Every third Sunday of the month, head to 1835 Beechmont Road to sample local country produce, homemade goods, plants, crafts, live music, food, trash and treasure. Upcoming dates are 17 November and 15 December 8am-1pm.
Raba Urban Farm
Every Wednesday from 2pm-5pm, local Bonogin family business Fruitopian Delight hosts a fresh produce stall at Raba Urban Farm in Mudgeeraba. If you are looking for the biggest avocados and mangoes you have ever seen, this is the spot for you.
Mudgeeraba Uniting Church Craft Fair
The Church is usually the first cab off the rank with Christmas events, and this year is no exception. Head to 89 Franklin Drive Mudgeeraba on Saturday 9 November 8am-2pm to grab some goodies from the Christian crafters.
Kids Christmas Market
The young entrepreneurs of the hinterland will set up shop at Ingles Park in Tallai on Sunday 15 December 10am-12pm to sell their creative wares and make some extra pocket money with their talents.
Mudgeeraba Twilight Christmas Markets
If you’ve left your shopping to the last minute or simply feel like enjoying a Christmas-themed feed, then head to the Mudgeeraba Showgrounds on Sunday 22 December at 3pm to enjoy the festivities before the big day.
Now Fresh Fruit & Veg Market
Get farm fresh produce right in the heart of the Mudgeeraba Market Shopping Centre. The pop up is there Fridays and Saturdays 7am-2pm and Monday 8am-noon.