Artisan markets continue to prove popular in ABC Borough: here's when the next will be held

In December 2025, Economic Development & Regeneration committee members approved the expansion of the Artisan Markets programme from nine markets to 14 markets in 2026.

The matter was mentioned at the latest meeting of the committee, with the relevant agenda item outlining the vision behind the initiative, and listing all planned events: “The Markets Strategy aligns with the council’s strategic objectives to grow the local economy and ensure the long-term sustainability of market activity across the borough.

“Its purpose is to deliver an enhanced market offering that builds capacity, supports traders, and strengthens local communities.

“The artisan markets took place in 2025 focusing on supporting local makers and producers, with priority given to those based near the host town.

“This approach fostered a strong sense of community, and ensured each market reflects the unique character of its location.

“The markets showcased a diverse range of locally sourced, and hand-made products, including hot food, baked goods, pet accessories, health products, jams and chutneys, candles, stationery, flowers, clay cottages, and organic spa products.

“The focus of the 2026 markets will continue to be on supporting local makers and producers.”

The following schedule has been proposed following consultation with other council departments and the five Chambers of Commerce / working groups within the borough.

The season opened in Lurgan last Saturday, April 18, when Lurgan Plaza hosted traders from 10am to 3pm, following a rescheduling from April 4 due to a weather warning.

This Saturday (April 25), Dromore Market Square takes its turn with the same 10am to 3pm running time, giving shoppers an early taste of the locally made food, crafts and produce that define the programme.

May brings two further dates, with Banbridge’s Solitude Park hosting a market on May 23, and Lurgan Park welcoming traders on May 30, both from 10am to 3pm.

June steps things up with Banbridge’s annual BuskFest on June 20, running from 12pm to 5pm across the town centre, including Scarva Street Plaza and Railway Street, before Portadown Pleasure Gardens hosts its market on June 27 from 10am to 3pm.

August will deliver two of the season’s standout events. Armagh’s Bluesfest will take over The Shambles Yard on August 1 from 1pm to 6pm, pairing live music with artisan stalls, while Portadown returns on August 29 at Magowan West Car Park from 10am to 3pm.

Dromore Market Square will host another market on September 19 from 10am to 3pm, followed by a Halloween-themed evening market at The Johnston Building in Armagh’s Shambles Yard on October 30 from 4pm to 8pm.

The programme closes in November with four markets tied to the Christmas light switch-on events in Banbridge, Dromore, Lurgan and Portadown.