Cape Town - The City of Cape Town’s Economic Growth Directorate has announced the return of Cape Town’s beloved summer market at the Company’s Gardens.
The market which had been on a two-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic will officially kick off on Friday, December 16 and run until Tuesday, December 20 from 4 pm and 10 pm, to allow residents and marketgoers to shop ahead of Christmas.
Economic Growth Mayco Member James Vos, said in support of the popular market and informal trading the City of Cape Town, the city had decided to provide funding training for the traders.
He said: “The Summer Market has been around for over two decades and has become something of an institution in Cape Town. The City is proud to host and support this event which not only gives people an experience of uniquely Capetonian foods, products and fun in a safe environment but also supports the local economy.”
Vos also revealed that the initiative will be administered by the Craft and Design Institute.
He said the training programme provided traders with skills in fields such as business strategy, financial management, product refinement, display and packaging, and sales and marketing.
“What these traders learned will benefit them not only during this market but for future events,” Vos said.
Over 150 stalls are expected to be a part of this year's market, selling a range of crafts, foods, toys, novelties, and clothing.
The Company’s Gardens-based market will also feature a host of fun activities, including dancers and the ever-popular singing competition, the Summer Star.
Other highlights at the market include a chill zone where everyone can relax under the trees, a big screen that will broadcast the FIFA World Cup 2022 Final on December 18, a kids' play area and a car show for the car lovers.
“Market attendees can also enjoy live performances from some of Cape Town’s top artists, including former SA Music Awards nominee, Jarrad Ricketts, guitar maestro Loki Rothman and drag queen superstar Manila Von Teez.”
“This year we’re going all out with the Cape Town Summer Market because, when people buy from local businesses and traders, more rands end up circulating within communities, which in turn boosts our economy,” Vos said.