Okay, picture this: scarves, cinnamon air, a kid tugging your sleeve toward a face-painting stall, and you inexplicably buying a hand-pressed candle because the vendor told you it “smells like nostalgia.” Welcome to Times Square Center this winter – where weekends turn into a gentle festival of markets, workshops, and wholesome chaos. Whether you’re here to tick off gifts, hunt for tiny treasures, or just sip a long coffee while people-watching, the centre’s lineup has you covered.
What to expect
Each market weekend brings its own vibe – from artisanal sparkle to kid-friendly bargains – but they’re all threaded together by the same comfy feel: local makers, curious finds, and things you’ll actually want to give (or keep). Bring cash if you like, but also bring patience – lines for hot chocolate are a feature, not a bug.
ARTE Market – 29 & 30 November; 13 & 14 December
Love things with a story? This is your playground.
Expect handmade décor, bespoke accessories, and one-off treasures crafted by local artisans who’ve put elbow grease, heart, and maybe a sprinkle of glitter into every piece. If you want a gift that says “I noticed you,” rather than “I clicked add to cart,” this market is a one-way ticket to meaningful gifting.
Ripe Market – 7 December
Small-batch goodness and sustainable style.
Ripe champions organic foods, SME makers, and thoughtful creations that look good and feel good to buy. It’s the place for food lovers wanting to try airtight jars of something delicious, or anyone who likes presents with personality and provenance.
Baby Bazaar – 6 & 21 December
Preloved, pocket-friendly and parent-approved.
If you’re shopping for little ones (or watching someone else’s tiny human for the weekend), the Baby Bazaar is the spot to score almost-new clothes, toys, and gear that didn’t cost a mortgage. Bonus: it’s a sustainable win and perfect for families on a budget.
More than markets – stores that save the day
If your gift list includes electronics, supermarket staples or organic pantry restocks, Times Square Center has the usual suspects: pop into Sharaf DG for gadgets and festive tech must-haves, swing by VIVA for budget-friendly supermarket runs, or hit BiOrganic. for healthy and organic essentials. Think of these as the practical anchors to your market treasure hunt.
Food, coffee and cosy pit-stops
Markets are hungry work. Between stalls, there are plenty of cosy cafés and inviting restaurants where you can recharge. Pull up a chair, claim a corner table, and plot your next purchase while warming your hands on something hot. Pro tip: plan a meet-up spot – it’s the easiest way to find family when everyone’s distracted by artisan soap.
Families, accessibility & practical bits
Times Square Center is family-friendly with ample parking and easy access – a blessing when you have bags, buggies, and a toddler who insists on sampling every bauble. Workshops and creative activities often run alongside the markets, so check the day’s schedule if you want to sign the kids up for painting, crafting, or face paint masterpieces.
How to make the most of a market weekend
- Wear comfy shoes. Markets are cardio in cute packaging.
- Bring a reusable bag for market finds – less juggling, more sipping.
- Set a budget: delicious impulse buys happen. A little planning helps.
- If you’re buying for someone specific, ask vendors questions – makers love to share the story behind their craft, and that story often becomes the best part of the present.
Why these markets matter
Beyond cute stalls and festive treats, these markets bring people together: they spotlight local talent, support small businesses, and make the season feel less like a rush and more like a neighbourhood party. Buying here is a tiny, joyful way to be part of that loop.
Wrap-up: come for the shopping, stay for the vibe
Whether you’re gift-hunting, brunching, or simply on a mission to drink the centre’s strongest coffee, Times Square Center turns weekends into something extra. With ARTE Market, Ripe Market, Baby Bazaar and reliable in-house stores on hand, your festive season shopping suddenly feels easier – and somehow more fun. So mark the dates, grab a friend (or a sweater), and go find that candle that smells suspiciously like nostalgia. You know you want it.
