There’s a good reason to head to Gisborne in the Macedon Ranges on Sunday 1 November 2026. The Gisborne Olde Time Market is turning 50, and it’s celebrating with a special Gala Market packed with stalls, live music, giveaways and a few extra reasons to linger.
For half a century, this much-loved market has brought people together over handmade finds, fresh produce, good food and the simple pleasure of a Sunday morning spent browsing. Just 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, it’s an easy excuse to swap the city for a country town — and to be part of a local story that stretches back to 1976.
The market’s 50th birthday is also a chance to recognise the volunteers, stallholders and community groups behind the scenes. What began as a fundraising idea to help establish local ambulance services has grown into a monthly tradition that has returned around $1 million to the Gisborne community.
So, whether you’ve been visiting for years or haven’t yet discovered it, put Sunday 1 November in your diary and join in the celebration.
A community idea that grew into a 50 year tradition
The Gisborne Olde Time Market began with a local need. In 1975, an incident involving a young boy struck by a car highlighted the difficulty of getting an ambulance to Gisborne quickly. The resulting public meeting led to the formation of the Gisborne Ambulance Auxiliary.
After an early fundraiser raised just $15, a local police sergeant suggested holding a market in the garden of Macedon House, the former Mount Macedon Hotel dating back to 1847. Locals such as Trish Kaye, Barbara Lock, Beth Crawford and Mal Grant swung into action: the idea proved successful, and the market became a regular monthly fundraiser.
It eventually moved to the Aitken and Hamilton Street service roads, where visitors still browse the stalls today. In 2002, management passed to the GREAT Association (Gisborne Region Events Activities and Tourism), a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers.
GREAT is still very active, with a small office in the Gisborne Community Centre, and new volunteers welcome. Funds from the market benefit the CFA, Scouts, schools, Food Bank, Carols, Chaplaincy and many other community groups.
Over the years, market funds have supported local community groups and helped improve Gisborne’s public spaces and facilities. It’s a reminder that a market can be much more than a place to shop: it can help shape a town.
Discover more about the market’s beginnings in the official market history.
What to look for at the Gisborne Olde Time Market
With more than 150 stalls, there’s plenty to explore. Browse handmade arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing, accessories, books, plants and fresh flowers. Pick up regional produce, honey, preserves and sweet treats, then grab a coffee or something to eat while you decide where to wander next.
Part of the fun is not knowing exactly what you’ll find. You might be shopping for a gift, searching for something for the garden or simply enjoying a browse — there’s a changing mix of stallholders and opportunity to chat with the people behind the products.
The market runs from 9am to 2pm on the first Sunday of each month, except January. See the full details on our Gisborne Olde Time Market event listing and check the official market website for visitor information. We also recommend following the Gisborne Market Facebook page for timely event and weather updates.
Join the 50th anniversary Gala Market
Sunday 1 November 2026 | 9am–2pm | Gisborne town centre
The November market will mark 50 years with a bumper market, live music, giveaways and anniversary festivities. Come along to browse the stalls, enjoy the atmosphere and celebrate the community that has kept this tradition going for five decades.
For the latest announcements about the Gala Market, visit the Gisborne Olde Time Market website or follow the market on Facebook.
Stay a little longer in Gisborne
There’s plenty more to explore once you’ve finished at the market. Wander through the Gisborne Botanic Gardens, follow the Jackson’s Creek walk towards Sankey Reserve, or settle in at a local café before exploring the town’s shops and heritage streets.
Gisborne makes an easy day trip from Melbourne, but it’s also a handy base for discovering more of the Macedon Ranges. Explore our guide to things to do in Gisborne, find more ideas in our Macedon Ranges market guide or browse places to stay across the region.
Fifty years after that first fundraiser, the Gisborne Olde Time Market is still bringing people together and giving back to its community. Join us in celebrating this milestone on Sunday 1 November — and discover a little more of Gisborne while you’re here.
Gisborne Olde Time Market Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 50th anniversary Gala Market?
The special 50th anniversary market takes place on Sunday 1 November 2026, from 9am to 2pm. Expect a bumper market, live music, giveaways and anniversary festivities. Check the official market website for updates.
How far is Gisborne from Melbourne?
Gisborne is around 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD by car, depending on traffic. Take the Calder Freeway and make a morning of exploring the market and town. Find local highlights in our Gisborne visitor guide.
Where is the market held?
The market is located along the Aitken and Hamilton Street service roads in Gisborne town centre. See the Visit Macedon Ranges event listing for the address and event details.
What can I buy at the market?
More than 150 stalls offer a broad mix of handmade arts and crafts, clothing, jewellery, accessories, books, plants, flowers, produce, preserves, food and more. The range varies between stallholders, so there’s always something new to browse.
Is the market held every Sunday?
The market is held on the first Sunday of each month, except January, from 9am to 2pm. The 50th anniversary Gala Market is on Sunday 1 November 2026.
Is there food and coffee?
Yes. Food stalls and coffee are available at the market, and there are cafés nearby if you’d like to sit down for a break. Explore more options in our Gisborne food and drink guide.
Can I bring my dog?
The market’s visitor rules exclude pets, except assistance animals. If you’re travelling with your dog, check the official market website before visiting.
Is the market accessible?
The market is listed as an accessible venue with accessible toilets. If you have particular access requirements, contact the organisers on 0431 563 566 or check the official market website before travelling.
What else can I do in Gisborne?
Make time for the Botanic Gardens, the Jackson’s Creek walk, local cafés and shops. If you’re keen to explore further, our Gisborne destination guide is a good place to start planning the rest of your day.
