Looking for the best family-friendly markets in Wollongong and the Illawarra? From weekend markets with kids’ entertainment to pre-loved toys, handmade gifts, great food, kids’ activities & playgrounds to locations overlooking our stunning coastline, there are plenty of local markets worth exploring with the family in tow.

Here at Parents Guide Illawarra, we love an easy and affordable family outing – and our local markets are perfect for this. We’ve rounded up our favourite kids and family markets across Wollongong, Illawarra & Shellharbour – plus we’ve also included some South Coast definitely markets worth the drive. Enjoy the sunshine, soak up the relaxed market atmosphere and make a family day of it.

Always check the latest market dates before you head out. Outdoor markets and special activities can change due to weather and other events.

Best Kids & Family Markets in Wollongong & Northern Illawarra

Bulli Village Market

Bulli Village Market is a great one for the whole family, including the fur babies! There’s loads of indoor and outdoor space, live local music and plenty to keep the kids happy. Think pony rides, face painting, henna tattooing and a cool sandpit & small playground out on the green. Come hungry too: there’s a huge mix of market food, from dumplings, Vietnamese and Mexican to gozleme, South American eats, donuts, homemade lemonade and plenty of sweet treats.

Bulli Village Market also runs great seasonal markets around Easter and Christmas, along with a special Mother’s Day market – making this market a great spot for family and kid-friendly gifts.

When: Second Sunday of the month, 9am to 2pm
Location: Bulli Showground, Grevillea Park Road, Bulli NSW 2516
Plan your visit to Bulli Village Market here

The Nest Markets

The Nest Markets are a lovely family-friendly market by the lake, with plenty of space for the kids to run. Stock up on fresh produce and local goodies, then grab a coffee, breakfast or lunch and settle in by the lake. The kids can meet the friendly farmyard animals and enjoy live entertainment, while the beautiful Reddall Reserve location gives families plenty of room to enjoy the sunshine and make a day of it.

The Nest Markets also run special family events, including their upcoming Halloween event in Wollongong with kids’ costume parades, face painting, hands-on workshops, activities, food trucks and cosplay.

When: Second Saturday of every month, 9am to 3pm
Location: Reddall Reserve (ocean end), Lake Illawarra NSW 2518
Plan your visit to The Nest Markets here

Coledale Markets

Coledale Markets are one of our favourite family-friendly markets in the Northern Illawarra, set in the grounds of Coledale Public School between the ocean and escarpment. There’s a lovely local community feel, with pre-loved clothes, books, handmade goodies, food, cakes, coffee and live music to browse and enjoy. Supporting the markets also helps support Coledale Public School. Once you’ve let the kids hunt for a pre-loved bargain, then pack the swimmers and head to Coledale Beach afterwards. Market morning plus beach time sounds pretty good to us. A family-friendly Sunday done night.

When: Fourth Sunday of the month, 9am to 3pm
Where: Coledale Public School, 699 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Coledale NSW 2515
Plan your visit to Coledale Markets here

If you are after more family-friendly beach days, head over to our Best Beaches & Swimming Spots Wollongong, Illawarra and South Coast Guide

My Kids Market Illawarra: Sunday 22 November

My Kids Market is a market made for families, and a great one for bargain hunting! The next My Kids Market to hit the Illawarra will take place at Shellharbour City Stadium, Sunday 22 November. Mums and dads sell the baby and kids gear their families have outgrown, so you can hunt through pre-loved toys, puzzles, books, bikes, clothes, shoes, prams, cots, highchairs and more, often for a fraction of the original price. You’ll find everything from newborn to tween sizes, including popular kids’ brands, plus small local businesses selling new and handmade goodies.

Entry: $5 for adults, kids are FREE. FREE parking
Bonus: Lucky door prizes at each market
Location: Shellharbour City Stadium 110 Croome Road Croom New South Wales 2527,
Plan your visit to My Kids Market Illawarra here / plus regularly check out their Facebook page here for more Illawarra dates scheduled.

Eat Street (Thursday night) & Friday Produce Market, Wollongong CBD

Crown Street Markets are an easy one to enjoy with the kids while you’re in Wollongong CBD. Thursday night’s Eat Street is perfect for a casual family dinner, with loads of street food to choose from including gozleme, noodles, BBQ, Vietnamese, Italian favourites, pastries, donuts and desserts. There should be something to keep even the fussier eaters happy!

Or visit on Friday for their Produce Market and get the kids involved in choosing the weekly fruit and veg, with fresh seasonal produce, farm-fresh eggs and baked goodies direct from local growers and producers.

When: Thursday 5pm to 9pm and Friday 8am to 3pm
Location: Crown Street Mall, Wollongong NSW 2500
Plan your visit to Crown Street Markets here

Red Point Arts Makers’ Market, Port Kembla

Got creative kids? Add Red Point Arts Makers’ Market to your list. Families can browse art and craft stalls, explore artist studios and see exhibitions. Market events can also include food and live music. It’s a good option for families looking for creative markets and handmade gifts.

When: Second Saturday of every month, 10am – 2pm.
Location: Red Point Arts, 100 Wentworth Street, Port Kembla NSW 2505
Plan your visit to Red Point Arts Makers’ Market here

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Best Kids & Family Markets in Shellharbour & Southern Illawarra

Precinct at The Shellharbour Club

Okay, so Precinct isn’t technically a market, but we think it deserves a spot here! It has a fun indoor street-market-style feel designed with families in mind, making it a great option when you want the market atmosphere without worrying about the weather.

Families can choose from different food spots, including Big Time BBQ, Dynasty Dumplings and Bon Bon, so everyone can pick what they feel like. The big win for parents is The Block House, a dedicated kids’ play space where little ones can climb, explore and burn off some energy while you grab something delicious to eat. Market-style food, indoor kids’ play and no weather worries. Big win for families!

When: Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and/or dinner
Location: The Shellharbour Club, Cnr Wattle & Shellharbour Roads Shellharbour NSW 2529
Plan your visit to Precinct here

Keen to explore more family-friendly things to do in Shellharbour & surrounds? Explore our Best Shellharbour Playgrounds, Parks & Beaches. Things to do with Kids Guide

Albion Park Community Hub Market

The Albion Park Community Hub Market is one of our top picks for kid-friendly markets in the Illawarra, especially when they turn up the family fun! Alongside 40+ local stalls, handmade goodies, fresh produce and food, the markets regularly feature kids activities, arts and crafts, face painting and giveaways, making it much more than just a shopping trip.

Keep an eye out for their special events too: their Halloween and Christmas markets are huge family favourites, with extra activities and entertainment. Their annual MEGA Christmas Market typically features up to 125 stalls and a special visit from Santa. Activities can change each month, so check what’s planned before you go.

When: First Sunday of every month, from 9am – 2pm
Location: Centenary Hall, 108A Tongarra Rd, Albion Park NSW 2527
Plan your visit to the Albion Park Community Hub Market here

Markets at the Marina, Shell Cove

Markets at the Marina is a gorgeous family-friendly waterfront market in Shellharbour, and a lovely excuse to get everyone outside on a Sunday, and enjoy a wander around beautiful Shellharbour Marina. Dogs are welcome too, and entry is free. Keep an eye out for extra seasonal markets on selected long weekends and their special two-day Christmas Market in December.

When: Last Sunday of every month, 10am to 3pm, plus selected seasonal dates
Location: Shellharbour Marina & Waterfront Dining Precinct, Shell Cove NSW 2529
Plan your visit to the Markets at the Marina Shell Cove here

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Best Kids & Family Markets in Kiama, Gerringong & Jamberoo

Kiama Seaside Markets

Kiama Seaside Markets have one major family advantage before you’ve even reached the first stall – the location is gorgeous! Held at Black Beach Reserve, families can browse the stalls while enjoying Kiama’s waterfront parklands and walking paths. Grab something to eat and turn the market into a bigger Kiama family day out.

When: Third Sunday of the month, 9am to 3pm, and some public holidays
Where: Black Beach Reserve, Kiama NSW 2533
Plan your visit to Kiama Seaside Markete here

Gerringong Rotary Markets

Parents of younger children will appreciate one particular feature of the Gerringong Rotary Markets. They’re held at Old School Park and Town Hall, right beside a playground. Browse the market stalls, look out for books, toys and treats, then let the kids have a play. A visit to the cafes, gelato and bakeries on Gerringong’s Fern Street is also a must.

When: Third Saturday of the month, 8.30am to 1.30pm
Where: Old School Park and Town Hall, 106 Fern Street Gerringong, NSW 2534
Plan your visit to the Gerringong Rotary Markets here

Keen to explore more of what Gerringong has to offer and surrounds? Explore our 15 Fantastic Family Adventures in the Illawarra and South Coast Guide here

Jamberoo Village Markets

Jamberoo Village Markets are another easy option with kids. There’s a playground and skate park nearby, which is particularly useful when the kids have had enough of browsing stalls. Jamberoo is a gorgeous village with character and charm to boot. It makes for a great day out with the family. Toilets are available onsite, and this is a pet-friendly (on-leash) market. 

When: Last Sunday of the month, February to November, 9am – 2pm
Where: Allowrie Street, Jamberoo NSW 2533
Plan your visit to Jamberoo Village Markets here

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Best Family-Friendly Markets in Berry & the South Coast

Happy to travel a little further? These markets can be combined with a bigger South Coast family day trip.

Berry Village Market

Berry Village Market is a lovely family-friendly South Coast market for a relaxed Sunday outing. Come hungry and bring a picnic blanket. Grab lunch, coffee, fresh lemonade or a sweet treat, then find a spot on the green and enjoy the live music. There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating too, making it an easy market to enjoy with the whole family. Fur babies are welcome as well.

When: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10am to 3pm
Location: Berry Bowling Club, 140 Queen Street, Berry NSW 2535
Plan your visit to Berry Village Market here

Jervis Bay Maritime Museum Market, Huskisson

For a bigger South Coast family day trip, add the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum Market to your list (pictured above). The market is held in the museum grounds, giving families open space to enjoy while browsing. There are also nearby boardwalks to explore. Combine the markets with more things to do around Huskisson and Jervis Bay for a full family day out.

When: Summer Twilight Markets 3pm – 7pm (October – April). Winter Morning Markets 10am – 2pm (May – September)
Location: Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, Woollamia Road and Dent Street Huskisson, NSW 2540
Plan to visit to Jervis Bay Maritime Museum Market

With so much to see & do in the stunning South Coast of NSW, make the most of it and combine your market day out with an even bigger family adventure with our 15 Fantastic Family Adventures in the Illawarra and South Coast Guide

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Family Market Events & Festivals Kids Will Love

Eats & Beats Oak Flats, Saturday 19 September

Eats & Beats is a special family market event in Oak Flats rather than a regular monthly market, and this one sounds like a lot of fun for the kids! Central Avenue comes alive with street food, food trucks, live music, roving performers, creative market stalls and free family activities, including face painting and twilight fun.

It’s being held in partnership with Oak Flats Public School, which means even more for families with carnival rides, showbags and extra entertainment. Grab some dinner, let the kids enjoy the activities and soak up the atmosphere for an easy family night out.

Grab your ride passes for the discounted rate of $30 today here (available until Friday 11 September).

When: Saturday 19 September 2026, 4.30pm to 8.30pm
Location: Central Avenue, Oak Flats NSW 2529
Entry: FREE, with carnival rides available separately
Plan your visit to Eats & Beats Oak Flats here

Culture Mix Wollongong, Saturday 26 September

Culture Mix is a special FREE family-friendly event in Wollongong CBD celebrating the many cultures that make up our local community. For one big day, the city comes alive with music, dancing, art, hands-on workshops, colourful installations and delicious food from around the world.

It’s a great one for kids to experience different cultures, try new foods and get involved in creative activities, with plenty happening across Crown Street Mall, Wollongong Art Gallery and Wollongong Library.

When: Saturday 26 September 2026, 11am to 6pm
Location: Wollongong CBD, including Crown Street Mall, Wollongong Art Gallery & Wollongong Library
Plan your visit to Culture Mix here

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FAQs: Kids & Family Markets Wollongong & Illawarra

What are the best markets in Wollongong & Illawarra for kids’ toys and games?

My Kids Market is our first pick for pre-loved children’s toys, games, books, clothes and baby gear. Local makers markets can also be great for finding something different for kids.

Which Illawarra markets have dedicated play areas for kids?

Gerringong Rotary Markets are held beside a playground. Jamberoo Village Markets have a playground and skate park nearby.

For an indoor market-style food experience, Precinct at The Shellharbour Club has The Block House children’s play area.

Which markets in the Illawarra sell unique gifts for children?

Try local makers markets such as The Nest Markets, Bulli Village Market and Red Point Arts Makers’ Market.

My Kids Market is particularly good for finding pre-loved toys, books and other children’s items.

Stallholders change regularly, so what you’ll find will vary between markets.

Are there any markets in Wollongong offering craft activities for kids?

Selected Albion Park Community Hub Markets have included children’s art and craft activities.

Culture Mix Wollongong also features workshops and creative experiences. Check current programs before attending as activities can change.

Where can I find markets with children’s entertainment in the Wollongong region?

Bulli Village Market is a strong family option, with pony rides and face painting among its attractions.

Eats & Beats Oaks Flats and other special family market events can also include children’s activities and entertainment.

What are the top markets for families with young children in Wollongong?

We particularly like markets where there’s more for little kids to do than browse stalls.

Bulli Village Market has family entertainment. Gerringong Rotary Markets and Jamberoo Village Markets have play facilities nearby.

My Kids Market is a great choice for families looking for children’s toys, books, clothes and baby gear.

What are the best family markets in Shellharbour?

Try Albion Park Community Hub Market and Markets at the Marina in Shell Cove.

Eats & Beats Oak Flats is also worth watching for family activities, food and entertainment.

What are the best family-friendly markets in Kiama?

Kiama Seaside Markets are an easy choice for families. The Black Beach Reserve waterfront location means you can combine the markets with parklands, walking and other things to do around Kiama.

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Discover More Family Fun Across Wollongong & the Illawarra

A good local market can be such an easy family outing.

Grab a coffee, let the kids choose a treat and browse local stalls. Add a playground, beach or walk afterwards and you’ve got a great family morning without spending a fortune.

Keep Parents Guide Illawarra handy for even more family fun. We bring together the best things to do with kids in Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and across the Illawarra.

INTERNAL LINKS TO ADD:

What’s on for kids this weekend in Wollongong & Illawarra

Best playgrounds in Wollongong & Illawarra

Free things to do with kids in Wollongong

School holiday activities Wollongong & Illawarra

Family-friendly dining Wollongong & Illawarra

Things to do with kids in Kiama