Paddington Markets

Established in 1973, Paddington Markets began as a modest community initiative organized by the Paddington Uniting Church. The original goal was to provide a space for local craftspeople, artisans, and musicians to share their talents and sell their wares in a supportive environment. What started as a few small stalls on the church grounds quickly blossomed into a vibrant hub of creativity that captured the bohemian spirit of the era. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the markets evolved into a prestigious proving ground for emerging Australian fashion designers. Iconic brands such as Sass & Bide, Zimmermann, and Lisa Ho all began their journeys here, using the market stalls to test their designs on the public before achieving international acclaim. This reputation for discovery solidified Paddington Markets as a mandatory stop for fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters looking for something truly original. Today, the market continues to thrive as a cornerstone of Sydney’s creative community, hosting over 150 unique stalls every Saturday. While it has modernized, it remains committed to its founding principle: the person who makes the product must be the one who sells it. This dedication to authenticity and local craftsmanship ensures that every visitor leaves with a piece of Sydney's artistic heart, continuing a legacy that has spanned over five decades.