Where Community Meets Craft

Set against the green hills near Hillcrest, The Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market has become something of a Saturday institution. For nearly three decades, locals have gathered here not only to shop but to connect, making it as much about community as it is about produce and products.

Founded in 1998 by Christine and Keith Standeaven, the market began with a simple vision: bringing fresh farm produce directly to the local community. "We had just 12 traders, and we traded for three hours on a Saturday morning," Christine recalls. What began as a modest gathering has since grown into a bustling destination with over 100 traders and a loyal following of visitors from all over KZN and beyond.

The stalls reveal an inviting mix of fresh produce, artisan foods, handmade goods and creative talents. The relaxed countryside setting encourages visitors to slow down, browse and enjoy the morning. It takes place every Saturday morning in the Shongweni Valley, where good food and friendly faces continue to draw people back week after week.

"What started with just 12 traders has grown into something very special, our traders aren't just our stallholders, they're like family." (Christine Standeaven)

Tasty Treats

For many people, the first stop is food. The aromas drifting through the air make it almost impossible to resist sampling something along the way.

One popular stop is the Valeo Foods Stall, where fluffy, golden crumpets are served with a tempting range of sweet and savoury toppings. Cami Long, who recently visited the market, described them as "an absolute treat; the crumpets are fluffy and perfectly cooked, with a mouthwatering choice of toppings".

Food lovers can also explore global flavours. Yomami, which serves authentic Thai pot stickers, will have you drooling for more. Nearby, artisanal breads, cheeses and freshly brewed coffee add to the appetising atmosphere, turning a simple morning outing into a relaxed culinary adventure.

Treasures to Take Home

While the food draws crowds, the craft stalls provide plenty of reason to linger. Visitors browsing the stalls will discover handmade jewellery, ceramics, home décor and other unique creations that reflect the creativity of local makers.

Amongst the traders is Eva Fellner, a first-time casual stallholder who brought her German-language historical book series to the market. Her saga has been a bestseller in Germany, but reaching readers in South Africa has proved more challenging. "I'm trying my luck at Shongweni," she explains. "It's a wonderful place to connect with people and share my stories."

Literature, art and craft stalls highlight one of the market's greatest strengths: providing a welcoming platform for independent producers, artisans and creators to share their passions with the community.

A Community Experience

The Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market is ultimately about people. Regulars greet favourite traders by name, friends gather over coffee, and families spend relaxed mornings enjoying the atmosphere.

Children, in particular, find plenty to delight in. Tanya, from Fun Faces, is often on hand in the Village, using face painting to transform eager youngsters into butterflies, superheroes and animals with a few skilful brushstrokes. Painted faces darting between the stalls add a splash of colour and laughter to the morning.

Reflecting on the journey, Christine Standeaven says its success lies in the sense of connection it has created. "What started as a small idea has grown into something very special. Our traders aren't just our stallholders, they're like family."

For residents of Hillcrest and the surrounding Upper Highway area, the Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market remains a place to shop, explore and catch up with neighbours. Whether you come for the fresh produce, the handcrafted goods or simply the welcoming atmosphere, every visit offers something new to discover.

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