GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - An exciting new project awaits local food lovers, crafters and musicians in Graaff-Reinet and surrounding towns, with the launch later this month of regular weekly markets in the Angel Park gardens.
This is a job creation initiative by the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality, with backing from private donors. The vision is that it will "symbolise a cooperative, prosperous and creative community, offering a marketplace for local arts, crafts, and food, creating a tourism destination around the historic heart of Graaff-Reinet."
An added benefit is that the gardens will be upgraded and maintained, which will benefit all local residents and visitors.
The first Graaff-Reinet Community Market will take place on Saturday 27 April, and to celebrate the launch of the venture, stalls for that day will be available to local crafters free of charge.
The organizers wish to set a high standard for the market from the beginning, so products will be checked for quality. The emphasis will be on handmade products which are locally produced, and mass-produced items bought for resale will not be encouraged.
The regular charge for a table will be R100, which includes electricity if it is needed. Stallholders will need to bring their own chairs and protective shade if required. With the abundance of trees, and approach of winter, shade should not be a problem for the first few months at least – in fact, during the winter, some warming sun may well be appreciated. There is no commitment to take part every week, so sellers may choose how often they wish to take part, and tables may be shared by more than one producer.
Those wishing to apply for a stall must contact Bobby Thomas on 040 555 1007 or info@grtcommunitymarket.co.za. There are only 20 places available for crafters, and many more tables for foods and activities, so those who are interested are urged to apply as soon as possible. A waiting list will be established for those who cannot be accommodated immediately.
On the day, stallholders may set up from 08:00 and need to be cleared away by 16:00. There will be ample security with patrolling guards, for the protection of the public as well as stallholders and their wares.
The food stalls, art and entertainment will all have an emphasis on local, high quality. Small businesses in town, such as restaurants and home industry shops, may also become involved.
There will be activities for children too, as happy and busy children will allow parents more time to browse and enjoy the outing.
The market will be open from 10:00 until 15:00, allowing those who wish to do so to still take part in the local park run and school sports, before visiting the market and enjoying lunch from one of a variety of food stalls.
This promises to be a real asset to both the stallholders and the community, with a regular outlet for crafters and bakers as well as an enjoyable outing for residents. Several well-known local crafters have already booked their places, and the community can look forward to a vibrant event with top quality food, products and entertainment.
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