West End Markets Archives - West End Today

West End Twilight Market to Light Up Davies Park

The West End Solstice Twilight Market is set to transform Davies Park into a six-hour winter celebration, with more than 150 stalls, live fire performances, roving entertainers and a pop-up bar taking over the riverside precinct.

The free event runs from 4pm to 10pm on 19 June at the corner of Montague Road and Jane Street. Registering for a free ticket also enters visitors into a draw for a gourmet market hamper.

The annual event has become one of the most anticipated nights on West End’s community calendar, bringing a different energy to the park that serves as the backdrop for the weekly Saturday morning markets. Same location, same community roots, different mood entirely.

How Davies Park transforms after sunset

The Camali Band headlines the live music program, setting the tone as the light drops and the temperature follows. Roving performers work the crowd throughout the evening: fire performers, the Fire Fairy, Japanese Drummers, face painters, the Bubble Magic Man and a live glass blowing demonstration that tends to draw its own audience once it gets going.

Bonfires are positioned across the park to gather around. The pop-up bar serves craft beer and Glühwein, the warm spiced wine that has become a fixture of the event over its years at Davies Park.

The park’s canopy of Moreton Bay figs, which frame the Saturday morning market in shade, takes on a completely different character with fire and low winter light underneath them.

The food

Over 150 stalls covers everything from fresh artisan finds to gourmet street food built for a winter night. Wagyu Blacks, Get to Bird and Barbie on Charcoal are among the food vendors confirmed for the evening, covering the heavier and more satisfying end of the market food spectrum.

The broader stall mix covers handmade and artisan goods alongside the food, with the scale of the event giving it more range than a typical Friday night market.

A market with decades behind it

Davies Park has been home to a beloved weekly market for decades, with the West End Markets now operating under Goodwill Projects, running every Saturday from 6am to 2pm beneath a canopy of Moreton Bay figs along the Brisbane River.

The winter solstice event sits outside that regular schedule as an annual occasion, and its community following reflects how embedded the market culture is in West End’s identity.

The Winter Solstice Twilight Market has run each June, taking advantage of the suburb’s capacity to turn an outdoor space into something genuinely festive when the occasion calls for it.

The West End Solstice Twilight Market runs next Friday, 19 June from 4pm to 10pm at the corner of Montague Road and Jane Street, West End. Free entry. RSVP via the Facebook event or click here to register for a free ticket and the hamper draw.

Published 12-June-2026

West End Winter Solstice Twilight Market Brings A Winter Night Out To Davies Park

As the afternoon light fades over West End, Davies Park is set to take on a different rhythm — one shaped by warm food, open-air stalls, live music, bonfires and the glow of a winter market after dark.

The West End Winter Solstice Twilight Market will return in 2026, turning the familiar market setting into a night-time gathering built around food, craft, entertainment and seasonal warmth. The event will be held on Friday, 19 June from 4:00pm to 10:00pm at Davies Park, 277 Montague Road, with free entry.

The setting will be familiar for regular visitors. West End Markets are normally held every Saturday morning at Davies Park along the Brisbane River, drawing people to the suburb for fresh produce, food, handmade goods and the area’s relaxed market atmosphere. The winter solstice event shifts that experience into the evening, giving the market a cooler-season mood and a more festival-like pace.

More than 150 specialty stalls are expected, with a mix of gourmet street food, global flavours, artisan products, handcrafted goods, local finds and gift items. The event is designed around browsing as much as eating, with visitors able to move through rows of stalls while entertainment unfolds throughout the night.

Brisbane events — Photo Credit: Supplied

Winter Warmth At The Centre Of The Market

Bonfires will be one of the event’s key winter features, giving the twilight market a seasonal focus beyond its food and retail offering. Pop-up bars will also serve craft beer and traditional Glühwein, adding a warm drink element suited to the colder evening setting.

The Glühwein has been highlighted as one of the market’s signature winter offerings, pairing the spiced drink with the event’s twilight hours and open-air layout. Together with the bonfires, it gives the night a distinct seasonal identity while keeping the event tied to West End’s casual market style.

Food will also remain central to the experience. The market will feature street food and gourmet options from across global flavours, giving visitors a broad mix of choices for dinner, snacks or a longer evening of grazing through the stalls.

West End Markets — Photo Credit: Supplied

Music, Performers And Family Activities

The market program will include live music, roving performers and children’s activities, creating a wider event experience for families, food lovers and market visitors.

The entertainment is expected to run alongside the stalls rather than sit separately from them, adding movement and atmosphere across the night. Children’s activities will give families another reason to stay, while live performances and roaming entertainment will carry the energy of the market through the evening.

This mix of food, stalls and entertainment gives the West End Winter Solstice Twilight Market a broader purpose than a standard shopping event. It is positioned as a winter night out, built around the suburb’s existing market identity but shaped for a different time of day.

West End’s Market Scene After Dark

The event also shows how the West End Markets can shift from their usual Saturday morning pace into a night-time format. Davies Park remains the anchor, but the mood changes with the later hours, the winter setting and the focus on warm drinks, lights and live entertainment.

Free ticket registration is available, with registered attendees able to enter a draw for a gourmet market hamper. Entry to the market remains free.

The Winter Solstice Twilight Market brings the area’s familiar market culture into the evening — not as a replacement for the regular Saturday market, but as a seasonal version built around food, music, bonfires and a winter night under the open sky.

Published 15-May-2026

Christmas Cheer Takes Over Davies Park at West End Christmas Twilight Market

Davies Park is set to shimmer under twinkling lights, as the West End Christmas Twilight Market bursts to life with festive flavour, family fun, and over 150 stalls celebrating Brisbane’s vibrant creative community.

Running from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, 5 December, the event promises an evening of handcrafted gifts, gourmet street food, live entertainment, and more than a little Christmas mischief courtesy of Santa himself.

Visitors can wander through a sprawling marketplace filled with artisan wares, handmade treasures, and unique stocking stuffers crafted by local makers. Whether you’re seeking a meaningful, locally made Christmas gift or simply soaking up the festive buzz, the twilight market delivers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of West End.

Foodies can indulge in dishes from some of SEQ’s favourite street food vendors, including Barbie on Charcoal, Kaysers Smoke Train, and Cup & Cone Ice Cream Co., alongside a range of global flavours that reflect the neighbourhood’s cultural diversity. A dedicated North Pole pop-up bar will keep spirits merry with Blood Orange Spritz and icy brews ideal for a balmy Brisbane evening.

Entertainment is set to be a highlight of the night, with TRACE Cover Band providing live festive tunes, supported by roving performers and a lively Kids’ Disco guaranteed to get Brisbane’s littlest elves dancing. And, in true Christmas tradition, Santa Claus will be making special appearances for photos, laughs, and a few cheeky “naughty or nice” check-ins.

Adding to the excitement, visitors can enter multiple competitions for the chance to win prizes, including a $200 gourmet hamper, dinner for four, and a $200 bar tab, simply by registering or interacting with event links.

Presented by Goodwill Projects — one of Queensland’s leading event organisers — the West End Christmas Twilight Market continues the area’s legacy of community connection, creativity, and weekend market culture. With free entry and entertainment for all ages, it’s set to be a highlight on Brisbane’s festive calendar.

Published 3-Dec-2025

Montague Road Named One of the Coolest Streets in the World in West End

Photo Credit: Traders in Purple

Montague Road in West End is Australia’s coolest street in Time Out’s 2025 ranking and is also the sixth coolest street in the world, recognised for its cultural venues, food scene and community activity.

West End’s Changing Streetscape

The 2025 global list released on 19 November 2025 placed Montague Road ahead of notable streets in cities including Berlin, New York and Tokyo. The street was once a quieter industrial area on the river side of West End before developing into a creative and hospitality-focused precinct. Its location provides a direct connection towards South Bank and QAGOMA.

Brisbane culture — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Cultural and Creative Venues in West End

Montague Road is home to several major cultural organisations. At one end, the restored Thomas Dixon Centre houses Queensland Ballet. Further along, Queensland Theatre draws audiences to its South Brisbane base. Independent creative venue Vacant Assembly contributes to the area’s cultural identity through life drawing sessions, exhibitions and pop-up markets.

Recreation-based venues such as axe-throwing facilities, rock climbing spaces and wellness studios including TH7 add to the diversity of activities. Mappin’s Nursery hosts terrarium and ikebana workshops, strengthening the street’s creative appeal.

Brisbane lifestyle — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Food and Drink on Montague Road

The street’s food and café culture played a significant part in its global ranking. Coffee Mentality, recognised with a major national coffee award for 2025, is one of its standout stops. Superthing, known for its pastries including a strawberries and cream croissant, is another popular spot.

Layla operates from a heritage-listed former boot factory serving Middle Eastern dishes. Coredeaux Social Club offers daytime café service and a wine bar at night. Other venues along Montague Road include +81 Aizome, Kor-Dak, La Macelleria, Tom’s Kitchen, Banette Bistro, Come to Daddy, BK Pizzeria, Veneziano Coffee, Ash & Monties Espresso Bar, Triton Food Brokers and Marcia’s on Montague.

*Photo Credit: Cordeaux Social Club/Facebook*

Markets and Community Activity

The West End Markets at Davies Park remain a key attraction each weekend, drawing steady crowds with fresh produce, food stalls and local makers. Nearby, the Gas Stripping Tower stands as the only remaining example of its type in Australia, adding heritage interest to the precinct.

How Montague Road Compares Globally

Montague Road ranked just behind streets in Rio de Janeiro, Osaka, Porto, Chengdu and Montreal. It placed ahead of well-known locations in Berlin, New York, Paris and Tokyo. Within Australia, the only other street included in the 2025 list was Swan Street in Melbourne, ranked 29th globally.

Outlook

Montague Road’s recognition reflects its role as a cultural, community and hospitality hub within West End. With established arts venues, diverse dining options, long-running markets and boutique businesses, the street continues to attract locals and visitors exploring the suburb.

Published 20-Nov-2025

Davies Park Comes Alive for West End Spring Solstice Twilight Market

As spring arrives in Brisbane, Davies Park is set to transform into a night market filled with street food, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.

Community Comes Together in West End

Davies Park will be transformed into a lively spring celebration as hundreds of stalls, food vendors, and entertainers gather for the West End Spring Solstice Twilight Market. The one-night community event is set to bring together families, friends, and neighbours in a space already known as one of Brisbane’s most popular weekend meeting places.

The twilight market will take place on Friday, 12 September, from 4 to 10 p.m. at the corner of Montague Road and Jane Street in West End. Entry is free. Visitors can explore more than 150 stalls, featuring everything from gourmet street food to artisan crafts.

A Night of Food, Music, and Family Fun

Food highlights include Nigerian dishes from Villa Pot, Japanese yakitori from Get To Bird, soufflé pancakes from Lamun, slow-cooked meats from Mr Pulled, and coconut desserts from Cocoart.

Live music will run throughout the evening, supported by roving performers and family-friendly activities. Entertainment will include a kids’ craft workshop, a children’s disco, a bubble fairy, and stilt walkers. A pop-up bar will be available for those looking to enjoy a drink while soaking in the festival atmosphere.

Linking Back to Local Traditions

Goodwill Projects, which runs the weekly West End Markets at Davies Park, also organises the Spring Solstice Twilight Market. These weekly markets have become a fixture of community life, drawing locals for fresh produce, handmade goods, and live entertainment.

By hosting a one-night seasonal event, organisers aim to expand on that community spirit while marking the arrival of spring in Brisbane.

How to Take Part

Attendees can register online for a free ticket, which also enters them into a draw to win a gourmet market hamper valued at more than $200. They can also RSVP through the official Facebook event page.

get tickets here

For families planning to join the kids’ craft workshop, early sign-ups are available to secure a spot.

Published 20-August-2025

Spring Solstice Market Set to Light Up West End with Food, Music, and Fun

West End’s beloved community spirit will shine even brighter this spring as the Spring Solstice Twilight Market rolls into Davies Park on Friday, 12 September, promising an evening packed with flavour, music, and festive flair.

Read: 5 of the Best Spring Buys at Harris Farm Markets West End

Running from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the seasonal market will bring together over 150 specialty stalls, transforming the riverside park into a buzzing hub of gourmet eats, artisan goods, and lively entertainment, all under the glow of the spring night sky.

From sizzling street eats to handmade treasures, the market is set to be a feast for all the senses. Food lovers can indulge in a global selection of dishes. Think smoky barbecue, fragrant curries, sweet pastries and more, while browsers can meander through stalls offering locally made art, crafts, and boutique products.

The event is more than just a market; it’s a celebration of West End’s creative energy and community spirit. Visitors can expect live music throughout the evening, with performances from local musicians and energetic roving acts creating a festival-style atmosphere. A pop-up bar will serve drinks for those keen to relax and soak up the vibes, while kids’ activities and family-friendly entertainment will keep younger visitors smiling.

Organisers from Goodwill Projects say the Spring Solstice Market will capture the essence of the changing season — fresh, fun, and full of colour. Entry is free, but those who register for tickets will go into the draw to win a Gourmet Market Hamper, packed with goodies from the night’s stallholders.

Read: Sip & Socialise: Power Moves Brings Wellness to the Streets of West End

Whether you’re a regular at the Saturday West End Markets or a first-time visitor, this special twilight edition is shaping up to be a must-do event for locals. Bring your picnic rug, gather your mates, and enjoy an unforgettable night by the river.

Event Details
Date: Friday, 12 September
Time: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location:: Davies Park, Corner of Montague Road and Jane Street, West End
Free Entry – Register online through West End Markets’ Facebook Page.

Published 25-July-2025

Time to Stuff Your Christmas Stockings: West End Christmas Twilight Market Is Coming

Photo credit: Facebook / West End Markets

‘Tis the season to be merry once again and West End Christmas Twilight Market is back for another night of festive Christmas shopping, eating and loads of live entertainment and activities for the entire family to enjoy.

Be sure to swing by Davies Park on Montague Road this coming Friday 9 December 2022 beginning at 4 pm for the West End Christmas Twilight Market. If you’re a fan of artisan handmade gifts then you’ll have a grand time browsing through everything that’s on offer here that you won’t find anywhere else.

Photo credit: Facebook / West End Markets

There will be an array of lovely gift items from local jewellers, fashion boutiques, crafters, creators and so much more across the more than 100 curated market stalls to fill your shopping list.

Along with Christmas cheer and decorations and roving entertainment (count on them to spin Mariah in the background as well), West End Christmas Twilight Markets will also be slinging heaps of gourmet eats and drinks, so your food cravings are well covered too.

Think, a bowl of paella from Plate of Spain, .crispy chicken karaage by Max D Junior, and scrumptious bibimbap from Bapboi, just to name a few.

Be sure to tag the kids along because Santa will be dropping by for some snaps, as well as loads of fun kiddie activities and entertainment to keep them busy throughout this 5-hour event.

This is a free event, so save the date! West End Christmas Twilight Market takes place on 9 December 2022 from 4 pm at Davies Park on Montague Road.

The West End Markets | Montague Rd &, Jane St, West End QLD 4101, Australia

Goodwill Team Oversees Rebranded West End Markets

Changes are happening behind the scenes at the West End Markets, formerly known as the Davies Park Market, as new management has taken over running this popular Saturday site. Goodwill Projects Pty Ltd was awarded the contract to run the local favourite weekend market for the next five years.

Goodwill Projects has officially started organising the West End Markets in mid-May 2021, taking over for Blue Sky Events Pty Ltd. The team led by Mark Power has been overseeing 150 vendors who converge at the Davies Park early Saturday morning to set up their stalls filled with food, produce, fashion and handcrafted pieces.

Mr Power and Goodwill are no strangers to mounting markets and liaising with the vendors as they are the group behind some of the most active and exciting markets around Brisbane — Nundah Farmers Markets, Brisbane City Markets, and Milton Markets, to name a few.

“We want to provide a platform for skilled, passionate individuals to start their dream business, launch their passion project or realise their ideas without the significant up-front challenges of a brick-and-mortar store, or long-term contract. Market activation’s offer a genuine alternative to those starting out,” the group said.

“We love seeing success stories and people’s hard work and passion turn into something special, growing into the next big thing in retail or food throughout Australia.”

With West End Markets, Mr Power intends to bring in new stallholders and secure permanent vendors, who have now been using EFTPOS machines on the site to make transactions easier.

The Goodwill team also wants to improve the traffic and parking situation around Davies Park every Saturday by providing subsidised Uber trips for some of the frequent shoppers as well as negotiating with Neuron scooters.

The West End Markets is held every Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.