What fun to be had at The Sydney Design Market

Boy oh boy, are we super excited to be back in Sydney this May! We cannot wait to see your happy, cheerful faces. Come celebrate the original festival-style design market with over 150 talented designers and food makers. Our lineup includes more than 30 exciting new brands to the Finders Fam, delicious locally-made treats, and plenty of thoughtful gift ideas, perfect for the weekend before Mother’s Day. You grab the 2-for-1 tickets, and she’ll find her new favourite treasures! Enjoy discovering unique designs, indulge in delicious food and drinks, and leave with something truly special that no one else has. 

The Finders Bar: 

Every market visit deserves a cosy spot to take a break, and this year, the Finders Bar does just that.

Created as a welcoming place to unwind and enjoy, the Finders Bar features a thoughtfully curated selection of independent makers from the market, so you can have a bevvie while you browse, AND take some home for later!

Come along and sip fresh, easy-drinking beers from Yulli’s Brews or try delightful drinks by Weerona Wines, Subtle Tea vodka, and Heathcote Gin. It’s all about slowing down and savouring the moment, with comfy lounge seating, a lively DJ setting a relaxed vibe, and a menu that highlights local producers doing their own unique thing.

Grab tickets now, WIN later:

There’s something truly delightful about planning your visit to the market in advance, especially when it comes with a little extra reward (Wahoo!). 

When you buy your tickets online for the Sydney Design Market, you’re automatically entered into a draw to win one of three $100 vouchers to Mapo Gelato (mmmmm 🤤). 

We love to support past and present Stallholders at our markets in any way we can, and Mapo Gelato is one of them! Their commitment to thoughtful craftsmanship and quality ingredients makes them such a wonderful part of our creative community.

Three lucky winners will each get a $100 voucher to enjoy at any Mapo Gelato store, including just around the corner in Newtown. All you need to do is secure your tickets online before the event. Tickets are just $7 each day or $10 for the weekend, with free entry for kids under 13.

Indigenous Program recipient, JIMAWOOD:

Sometimes the most meaningful creations begin by accident.

Born from the red pindan soils of the West Kimberley, JIMAWOOD transforms fallen native wood into handcrafted incense that carries the essence of Country, memory, and connection. What started as a chance reaction between rainwater, sawdust, and resin has grown into a practice grounded in Yawuru cultural traditions and slow, intentional making.

Explore the full story of JIMAWOOD and the cultural practices behind their work in our feature blog.

Regional Program recipient, NOA Australia:

NOA Australia is a quiet celebration of place, memory, and natural beauty.

Created by maker and artist Nicole in the coastal town of Lakes Entrance, each piece is handcrafted using foraged shells, driftwood, dried flowers, gemstones, and pearls gathered from her surroundings. No two pieces are ever the same, and that’s exactly the point.

Rooted in slow making and deeply personal storytelling, NOA Australia transforms everyday natural materials into wearable keepsakes and meaningful objects.

Read more about Nicole’s practice, process, and inspiration in the full feature blog.

Debuts:

We’re excited to welcome some new faces to The Finders Keepers fam! With over 30 new designers on our list, you’ve got so much newness to find. Enjoy plenty of tasty snacks and discover unique, mindfully-crafted gifts from independent Aussie brands.

Your Lineup:

Your groovy lineup is now live (here) and just waiting for you to start your shopping lists! Meet, admire, and support some of the coolest people around! 

Join us at the Sydney Design Market from May 1st to 3rd at Carriageworks, just one week before Mother’s Day!

Mindfulness Mural and Little Works of Art Activations:

Creativity meets play at the Sydney design market’s Mindfulness Mural, brought to life by the delightfully cheeky Merchants of Nonsense. Under the theme “this must be the place,” Kerrie’s design celebrates all things joyful, nostalgic, and unmistakably Australian, from iconic references to playful, unexpected details. 

The merchants of Nonsense love to discover new ways to look at old places. With this thought in mind, Kerrie has created a large-scale illustrated work that’s been designed for everyone to take part in. Throughout the weekend, visitors of all ages are invited to colour, doodle, and contribute in a free, family-friendly space to pause, get creative, and become part of the artwork itself.

NEW! A cute treasure hunt

Pick up your treasure hunt prompt card when you arrive at the Sydney Design Market, and let us help you discover even more!

From trying new flavours to snapping selfies and winning prizes, can you tick off all the cute prompts? Might need to come back tomorrow, too. First prompt: Find your $7 tickets online!

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