General News
12 December, 2025
Markets signal summer in Warrnie
FOR many locals and visitors to the region, the start of the Christmas markets on the Civic Green and Lake Pertobe signal the start of summer.
The Christmas market scene kicked off on the Civic Green on Sunday, November 30 and will also run on Sunday, December 7, December 14 and December 21.
The markets will be open from 9am through until 1pm, offering marketgoers the chance to seek out that unique gift and find those hard-to-get delicious Christmas foods.
There are over 60 stalls each week, filled with micro businesses run by the most talented and creative stallholders who are mainly locals.
Visitors can grab a bite to eat from the fabulous food trucks, enjoy a hot coffee and browse the stalls.
Like the markets on the Civic Green, the summer night markets at Lake Pertobe also attract large crowds throughout the season.
This year the summer night markets will commence on Saturday, December 27 (due to Boxing Day falling on a Friday this year).
They will then continue to be held on Friday’s throughout January- with markets scheduled for January 2, 9, 16 and 23.
The markets will run from 4.30pm until 8.30pm, again taking full advantage of the extended daylight hours.
These markets have been running (and growing) for 26 years and organisers believe they are the most sought-after market events in the district.
It is said every year that these markets are high up on the list of “highlights” for many holidaymakers to Warrnambool over summer.
Here you will find amazing market stalls, super talented local live music on two stages, and a delicious variety of foods and boutique beverages.
These markets are free events for locals and visitors to attend, and offer something the whole family can enjoy.
Organisers say crowds have continued to grow over the years, with feedback such as “it’s a vibe” and “the markets are amazing in terms of variety of quality,” showcasing all that Warrnambool has to offer.
Friends and family often make the Lake Pertobe precinct, which incorporates a wonderful children’s playground, barbecue and toilet facilities, a gathering place.
Market visitors can wander the stalls, throw a rug on the grass, try the tasty foods on offer, and enjoy a catch up while listening to the music.
A number of community groups also take the opportunity to join the market to raise funds and awareness of various projects.
What was originally an idea for a beach market and something that would potentially be magical for the city, has certainly proven to be just that.
The summer markets’ first season was held in the carpark of what was then the Yacht Club (now home to the Pavilion Café) however it quickly outgrew that space.
Warrnambool City Council then offered Lake Pertobe as a possible venue – and the markets continue to flourish.
