Summer in the city at Ely Markets! We have lots of extra activities alongside our regular weekly markets all through August for you to enjoy. Free family friendly craft activities, artists demonstrations and dance all feature on our markets this summer holiday, with new street food selections too. Come and join in!
Featuring a great line up of delicious food vendors from across the region, there will be something for everyone at Foodie Friday. With a fantastic diverse food and drink choice alongside live music from local artists and entertainers from 4pm to 8.30pm.
Bring your friends, meet family, eat from various different food trucks, have a drink, catch up and enjoy the live music!
The next Foodie Friday is scheduled for 28 June 2024. For a full line-up, please see the map below.
Foodie Friday will relaunch just in time for the Easter Bank Holiday Weekend at Ely Markets on Friday 29 March and will run throughout the spring/summer on the last Friday of every month.
Featuring a great line up of delicious food vendors from across the region, there will be something for everyone at Foodie Friday. With a fantastic diverse food and drink choice alongside live music from local artists and entertainers from 4pm to 8.30pm.
It’s a great place to meet with friends and family and try out all the fantastic independent food vendors lined up with great foodie choices for everyone.
Following the launch event on Good Friday 29 March, the next ‘Foodie Friday’ is scheduled for 26 April.
For the full line-up and regular updates, follow @ElyMarkets on social media or check back regularly to our website.
Ely Festive Food & Gift Markets will take place every Friday from 17 November, from 10am to 4pm. These markets will feature a wonderful selection of unique gifts and crafts to suit all budgets. Visitors will find lots of delicious seasonal street food, coffee and treats. These markets will take place every Friday from 10am to 4pm at Ely Market Place.
On Friday 24 November, our Festive Food & Gift Market will be a special extended late-night opening until 7pm. From midday, there’s a chance to visit the Re-Imagine Christmas Community Eco-Grotto with crafty ideas for a more sustainable eco-friendly Christmas celebration. Plus, festive entertainment around the enchanting lights of the Christmas tree and a special dance performance from 4D Dance Group.
On Friday 22 December, there will be a Festive Craft & Farmers’ Market, followed by a Christmas Craft & Farmers Market on Saturday 23 December. These markets will include popular stalls from Ely Farmers’ Markets featuring everything you need for your festive table. You will also find Christmas trees, wreaths and flowers to decorate your home for the season. Our Christmas Eve Sunday Market gives you another chance to pick up any last-minute gifts or just relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
In addition to the special Christmas Markets, our regular weekly markets continue to run every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday – plus Ely Farmers’ Market on every second and fourth Saturday. Each of these markets has a mixture of craft, food and vintage stalls – plus fresh produce, meat, fish and more.
During the festive season, every market is a Christmas Market. On Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays there is always a wonderful mix of arts and crafts by local makers sitting alongside local produce and artisan food. We’re well known for our street food from around the world and there’s plenty of space to sit and relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Whether you’re after a Christmas tree, unique gifts, local produce or some laid-back street food, make Ely Markets your festive destination this Christmas season!
Friday 17 November, from 10am to 4pm
Friday 24 November, midday to 7pm *special extended event with festive entertainment*
Friday 1 December, from 10am to 4pm
Friday 8 December, from 10am to 4pm
Friday 15 December, from 10am to 4pm
Friday 22 December, from 8.30am to 3.30pm
Saturday 23 December, from 8.30am to 3.30pm
Sunday 24 December, from 9am to 3pm
every Thursday from 8.30am to 3.30pm
every Saturday from 8.30am to 3.30pm
every Sunday from 9am to 3pm
every 2nd and 4th Saturday from 8.30am to 2.30pm
Ely Markets is delighted to invite families to a special festive celebration that combines sustainability with enchantment. Join us on Friday, November 24th, for Ely Markets’ Festive Friday, a heart-warming and eco-conscious event that promises a memorable start to the Christmas season.
“One of the highlights of the evening is the ‘Eco Grotto,’ presented by Re-Imagine, where children can meet Santa in a unique and immersive setting. While we emphasise the joy of the season, we also take a moment to inspire the importance of environmental responsibility during the holiday festivities,” says Julia Davis, Ely Markets Manager.
Families will have the opportunity to indulge in a delightful culinary experience, thanks to our carefully selected street food vendors. Explore late-night shopping for that perfect gift, harmonise with a captivating choir, and watch the little ones light up with joy during a captivating dance performance by 4D.
As the evening unfolds, don’t miss the chance to take in the enchanting sight of Ely’s bright lights, casting a magical glow over this festive Christmas celebration. These beautiful lights are generously contributed by Visit Ely, adding to the overall enchantment of the event.
“We are thrilled to be part of Ely Markets’ Festive Friday and to contribute by providing the Christmas lights that will adorn the event,” says Anna Bennet, spokesperson for Visit Ely. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to enhance the festive atmosphere and bring the community together.”
Ely Markets’ Festive Friday is the perfect occasion to create cherished family memories and share the warmth of the season with your loved ones. We invite families to come together for this heart-warming and community-driven event.
Ely Markets is thrilled to announce “Green Halloween,” a family-friendly event that combines the thrill of Halloween with a commitment to sustainability. Join us on the 27 October from 10am – 4pm for a day filled with free children’s activities, delectable street food, and a special CREATION-STATION experience hosted by Reimagine Resource Centre. Plus, get ready to show off your creativity in the “Best Recycled Material Halloween Costume” contest with exciting prizes to be won.
Date: 27 October
Time: 10AM- 4PM
Location: Ely Markets
Highlights of the “Green Halloween” event include:
Free Children’s Activities: Let your little ghouls and ghosts have a blast with a variety of fun and spooky activities designed just for them. From pumpkin decorating to face painting, there will be no shortage of entertainment to keep the young ones engaged.
Delicious Street Food: Indulge your taste buds with a delightful range of street food offerings from our select local vendors. You’ll have the chance to savour an assortment of delicious treats and meals to keep you fuelled during the event.
Re-Imagine Resource Centre creation station: Join Re-Imagine in embracing eco-creativity at one of their Reimagine CREATION-STATIONS, where you can craft cute Scrap Fabric Pumpkins suitable for all ages, as well as unique Halloween Door Wreaths. But that’s not all – brace yourself for a very special SPOOKY “MOVIE & GAMES NIGHT” DINNERIZE experience that promises unforgettable thrills. And, for those daring souls among us, we present the eco-scare-olicious scrap challenge – conquer it and receive a special treat that’s sure to delight! As a token of our appreciation, we’ll also be handing out FREE Pumpkin Chai Tea, the perfect beverage for a chilly Halloween.
Best Recycled Material Halloween Costume Contest: Dress up in your spookiest, most imaginative recycled material Halloween costume for a chance to win fantastic prizes. This is your opportunity to showcase your creativity and commitment to sustainability.
Mark your calendars for this spooktacular and eco-conscious Halloween event at Ely Markets.
Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better way to make the most of the season than by immersing yourself in the vibrant world of Ely Markets. From quirky antiques to mouth-watering street food, our lively weekly markets are a captivating haven for both locals and visitors alike. Let’s dive into the exciting array of delights and events that await you at Ely Markets this summer.
For families seeking a memorable outing, the Ely Markets Spotters Trail is a must-try activity. Take advantage of this free children’s activity and embark on a treasure hunt through our historic markets. Collect your activity sheet and set off to explore the wonders of the market every Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. See what fascinating items and stalls you can spot along the way.
Calling all young artists aged 5 to 15! Unleash your creativity in the Ely Markets Children’s Design Competition. Use a circle template inspired by Ely’s London Plane Trees to create a captivating design that showcases the essence of Ely Markets. Choose black and three other colours to make your design pop. Whether you’re promoting local shopping or depicting your favourite market finds, add your personal touch with words and images. This is your chance to shine and win exciting prizes, including Ely Markets vouchers and a Parent & Child Art workshop gift voucher with Art in the Burrow.
On August 19, Babylon Arts Young Associates invite all ages to participate in “Picture Me – Ely!” This free drop-in workshop is all about exploring portraits of people and the city of Ely. Engage with young artists who will guide you through various styles and techniques of creating portraits. You’ll have the chance to create your own portrait or self-portrait and contribute to a communal collage showcasing the beauty of Ely.
Discover the magic of nature and heritage with Wicken Fen National Trust Project on August 26. Join the Future Artefacts Ceramics Workshop and craft your own artifacts inspired by Wicken Fen’s history and wildlife. Led by artist Mina Heydari-Waite, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and imagine what the future might uncover about our lives today.
September 1 brings another exciting opportunity for young artists to explore their creativity. Join local artist Laura Pearson-Clark and create Foodie sketches inspired by the vibrant market produce. Contribute to the “Back to School” wallpaper mural and let your artistic flair shine. Parents and guardians, be sure to accompany your children for this day of artistic exploration.
As the sun sets, join us for Foodie Fridays at the Market Place. Experience the enchanting blend of street food and live music, creating a cosy and festive ambiance. It’s the perfect occasion to gather with friends and family, relishing the vibrant atmosphere and the array of delectable treats on offer.
Gear up for an extraordinary August Bank Holiday weekend at Ely Markets, where four days of markets await your exploration. From Foodie Friday on August 25 to the Bank Holiday Market on August 28, immerse yourself in a diverse range of stalls, artisanal goods, and scrumptious treats. It’s a celebration of community, culture, and culinary delights.
As the summer sun bathes the quaint city of Ely in a golden glow, Ely markets come alive with an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce. July and August bring a delightful array of fruits, vegetables, and artisanal treats to Ely Markets, making it the perfect time for food enthusiasts and families to indulge in the region’s natural bounty. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual journey, exploring the tantalising delights available during these warm months.
1. Juicy Berries
July marks the height of the berry season, with strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries taking centre stage. These vibrant jewels of summer are a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. You can find them freshly picked and bursting with flavour at various stalls throughout the market Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Whether you’re looking to create delectable desserts or simply enjoy them fresh with cream, the local berries won’t disappoint.
2. Crisp and Colourful Vegetables
The summer harvest brings an impressive selection of vegetables to Ely Markets. Vibrant red tomatoes, tender green beans, crunchy cucumbers, and succulent sweetcorn are just a few of the seasonal vegetables available. Locally grown and freshly harvested, these vegetables are not only delicious but also perfect for creating refreshing salads, grilled side dishes, and hearty meals.
3. Stone Fruits Galore
August introduces an array of stone fruits that are bound to please any fruit lover. Sink your teeth into succulent peaches, plums, and nectarines, each one ripe with sweetness and summer goodness. The local orchards offer an assortment of varieties, from the classic to the exotic, so you can savour the full spectrum of flavours.
4. Artisanal Baked Goods
Ely markets doesn’t just offer fresh produce; it’s also a haven for those with a sweet tooth. During July and August, talented local bakers showcase their artisanal treats. From crusty loaves of bread to delicate pastries, each item is lovingly made and promises to leave you craving for more. Be sure to try some of the seasonal fruit pies and tarts.
5. Handcrafted Beverages
Quench your thirst with a variety of handcrafted beverages available at the market. Local vendors offer refreshing lemonades, craft beer and iced teas, providing a perfect respite from the summer heat. Additionally, you can discover unique wines and ciders that complement seasonal flavours.
Ely Markets in July and August are a celebration of the region’s vibrant summer harvest. From juicy berries and colourful vegetables to sweet stone fruits and artisanal delights, the market is a treasure trove of fresh, seasonal produce. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone simply looking to savour the tastes of summer, Ely Markets have something to delight your senses. So, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this culinary haven and embrace the flavours of the season!
Remember, the availability of specific items may vary throughout the months, so visiting the market frequently ensures you won’t miss out on any of the delicious offerings. Enjoy the bounty of summer at Ely Markets!
Ely Markets grand finale of the Ely Arts Festival is set to be a memorable event, bringing together the community through food, art, and music. Taking place on Friday 30th June from 4 pm to 8:30 pm, this special edition of Foodie Friday will feature a range of enticing food and drink stalls, showcasing the offerings of local small and independent businesses.
In addition to the culinary delights, Ely Arts Festival has organised various free activities for both adults and children to participate in, adding an artistic touch to the event. This presents a wonderful opportunity for individuals of all ages to engage in creative experiences and explore their artistic interests.
The live music performances at the event will be headlined by Big Smoke Brass, Cliff Ward and Jade Rhiannon, and will include a Ceilidh by Stumpy Oak. These talented musicians are sure to provide an entertaining backdrop to the festivities, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Moreover, attendees don’t want to miss out on a surprise live performance that will take place during the event and a chance to add their artistic touch to the community mural! With a diverse range of activities, delicious food and drinks, and captivating live music, the grand finale of the Ely Arts Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for the community.
Julia Davis, of Ely Markets, said, “We look forward to hosting the grand finale of the Ely Arts Festival at Ely Markets Foodie Friday. This will be a great occasion for the community to come together and take part in a variety of free activities, enjoy delicious food and drinks provided by local small and independent businesses and listen to fantastic live music. This event will be an unforgettable experience and a great way to start the summer.”
Ely Markets encourages visitors to take advantage of the ample free parking available within a short walk from the market. For those who prefer cycling, bicycle racks are conveniently situated around the Market Place.
To stay up to date with the full line-up and receive regular updates, individuals can follow @ElyMarkets on social media.
As summer rolls around and the weather gets warmer, there’s no better way to enjoy the outdoors than by indulging in a delightful picnic. And what better place to source fresh and tasty treats for your picnic than Ely Markets? Located in the picturesque city of Ely, this vibrant market offers a wide range of delectable food options that are perfect for your outdoor feast during National Picnic Week. Join us as we explore the mouthwatering delights that await you at Ely Markets, ensuring your picnic is a scrumptious success.
Fresh and Flavorful Produce:
Ely Markets boast an impressive array of local farmers and producers, offering a bountiful selection of fresh and flavourful produce. From juicy fruits and vibrant vegetables to fragrant herbs and spices, you’ll find all the ingredients necessary to create a picnic spread bursting with colour and taste. Support local growers while ensuring the highest quality for your picnic goodies.
Artisan Breads and Pastries:
No picnic is complete without a variety of bread and pastries, and Ely Markets deliver on this front. Treat yourself to artisanal loaves of bread, baguettes, and rolls, perfect for creating gourmet sandwiches or pairing with delicious dips. Indulge in flaky pastries, such as croissants, pain au chocolat, or savoury options like cheese twists, to add an extra touch of decadence to your picnic.
Deli Delights:
Ely Markets are home to a delightful range of deli stalls, offering an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and antipasti. Create a charcuterie board to impress your fellow picnickers by selecting your favourite combination of flavours. Whether you prefer tangy goat’s cheese, aged cheddar, or salty prosciutto, the market’s deli section has something to satisfy every palate.
Scrumptious Sweet Treats:
Indulge your sweet tooth with an enticing selection of desserts and baked goods from Ely Markets. From artisanal chocolates to freshly baked cookies, there’s no shortage of delectable options to satisfy your cravings. Pick up some homemade cakes, brownies, or slices of pie to add a touch of indulgence to your picnic. Don’t forget to grab some local honey or jam to pair with your chosen sweets!
Refreshing Beverages:
Quench your thirst with refreshing beverages from Ely Markets. Whether you’re a fan of freshly prepared ice tea, Italian Wines, or craft beers, you’ll find a wide range of options to accompany your picnic spread.
As National Picnic Week approaches, make sure to visit Ely Markets to discover an abundance of mouth watering options for your outdoor feast. With our emphasis on fresh, local produce and an array of delectable treats, Ely Markets offer everything you need to create a memorable picnic. Celebrate the season, support local producers, and indulge in the flavours of Ely by choosing your picnic provisions from this vibrant market. Enjoy the great outdoors while relishing the delightful food that Ely Markets have to offer!