The Original Open Market

The Original Open Market is an open-air flea market held on the first and third Sunday of each month, from 8am to 1pm. The market’s website lists its site as The Reserve on Beach Road, Christies Beach, while the supplied directory listing places the venue in Hindmarsh, Adelaide, so it is worth checking the latest details before setting out. Either way, the market is built around browsing rather than a fixed retail offering, with stalls presenting a changing selection of goods from local sellers.

The range includes second-hand goods and clothing, home-grown fruit and vegetables, plants, handmade jewellery and crafts, antiques, collectables and bric-a-brac. With approval for up to 100 non-commercial stalls, the market can offer plenty to look through, although the exact mix will vary from one Sunday to the next. It suits anyone who enjoys unhurried treasure hunting, including collectors, bargain hunters, people looking for unusual handmade items and shoppers interested in re-use and second-hand goods.

The market has been operating since 1982 and is managed by a committee of volunteers. It began with seven stalls as an outlet for toys and handcraft made by a group meeting at the Baptist Church in Christies Beach, and has grown into a long-running community market. Its non-profit structure is central to the experience: money raised through stall site fees is donated to people, organisations and charities within the City of Onkaparinga. Community groups also operate a rostered barbecue, providing an additional local connection during market days.

For stallholders, the market welcomes new vendors and offers space for vehicles, standard trailers and large trailers, subject to its stallholder requirements. For visitors, the appeal is the combination of a broad, changing collection of goods and a clear community purpose. It is a practical weekend option for solo browsers and groups who prefer a relaxed market with local history, volunteer involvement and a direct contribution to community causes.