Markets are the true beating hearts of cities, a place where people gather, shop, talk and relax. For many years Dublin lacked a decent crop of indoor and outdoor markets, but times are changing.
While we still don't have a market to rival that of Cork's fantastic English Market - or that of European cities like Berlin, Lisbon or Madrid among others - a host of weekly, fortnightly and monthly markets have sprung up around the city, spotlighting some of the country's most exciting artisans, creators and designers.
Here, we've rounded up some of the best markets running across the city.
Bohemia Flea Market, Phibsboro, Dublin
Started by Richie Harte and Delphine Velut and finding its feet in the Dublin 7 Educate Together National School near the new TU Dublin campus in Grangegorman last year, the Bohemia Flea Market has settled for the time being in Kelly's Yard in Phibsboro, bringing a distinct thrum of activity to the neighbourhood every second weekend.
The expansive market sprawls through and around the covered yard, bringing an ecletic mix of stalls from all across the country. Vinyls, 00's fashion, mid-century furniture and bric-a-brac and even Irish design stars like Aisling Duffy can be spotted among the heaving stalls. Grab a coffee, a snack or just come to vibe to the in-house DJ. No two weekends are the same.
Moore St, Dublin
Bringing ever more life and activity to the historic market street, the Moore Street Market is a relatively new addition to the city but is noteworthy for its offering of diverse mix of stalls.
Running from Thursday to Saturday every weekend, it puts a much needed emphasis on cuisines and cultures that are lesser represented across the city, from traditional African food by Mama Shee and fiery Mexican tacos at Adobo Mexico, to Desi jewellery, as well as live music, henna tattoos, musical performances, live painting and no doubt a few characters.
St. Anne's Park Market, Dublin
Stretching down the length of this market kicks off between 10-4pm every Saturday and features some heavy hitters from the Irish foodie scene. You'll also find many artisan producers, from farmer stalls packed with vegetables, to Irish-made pet food.
If town seems like too far a trek for your weekend coffee and pastry, have no fear: celebrated bakery Bread 41 park their dinky food truck in the market every week, though stock sells fast. Stop by Sicillia in Ireland for their brioche stuffed with authentic Italian gelato for a truly indulgent treat.
People's Park, Dun Laoighaire, Dublin
A trip to the seaside is never a bad idea, and this market will cater to any need or want you may have, no matter the weather. Taking place on Sundays from 11am to 4pm in the stunning manicured park, this is one of the most popular markets in the city, and we can see why.
With well-maintained gardens, a tearoom, lovely fountains and a children's’ playground, there's more than enough to keep you entertained as you wander through the stalls.
We Love Markets, Digital Hub, Dublin 8
Just off Thomas St in Dublin 8, this "curated" market founded by Emma Brereton and Tara McGuinness takes place once a month and seems to growing exponentially each time. With a whopping 80 stalls at their June market, sellers here will be offering everything from sustainable fashion and vintage finds to artisan skincare and food and coffee.
Some vendors to look out for include Forager, who creates holistic skincare, Jove jewellery, which specialises in woven bead jewellery, and Henny Penny vintage, with its selection of sweet vintage pieces.
Farmleigh, Phoenix Park
Tucked into the picturesque grounds of the park's stunning Farmleigh estate, a historic Edwardian manor that now serves as a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries, the Farmleigh farmer's market offers a typically bucolic selection of stalls.
The next few markets take place on 6 and 13 August, and 3 September, but check the market's website for future dates.
Bushy Park, Terenure, Dublin 6
If you're been looking for a reason to explore another part of Dublin away from the city centre, let this be your excuse. This bustling market takes place every Saturday from 10am to 4pm and visitors can find everything from live music to tarot card readings, from week to week.
Herbert Park Farmer's Market, Dublin 4
This vibrant market takes place every Sunday from 10am to 4pm, in the bucolic setting of Herbert Park near Donnybrook. Running for years, it's a thriving hub of creators and producers and always draws a big crowd.
Highlights to look out for include Pacheco Venezualan food, locally made candles from Relax Waxx and if you're lucky, lush handmade popsicles from Kahuna Pops.
