Explore Potchefstroom’s Markets – Local Gems Worth Visiting Every Weekend

Yolandi Botes
Jun 17
3 min read

Updated: Jun 18

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When you think of Potchefstroom, you probably think of students, sports, and that strong community feel. But tucked between all the varsity buzz and neighbourhood cafés is something truly special, local markets that bring together crafters, foodies, farmers, and friendly faces.

Markets are more than just shopping spots. They’re about connection. They’re where you find homemade rusks next to thrifted vintage jackets, where small business owners chat with their customers face to face, and where your kids can run barefoot while you enjoy a fresh pancake and a moer koffie.

Whether you’re new in town, a born-and-bred Potchevillian, or just looking for something to do on a Saturday, this guide’s for you.

🌾 Monthly & Pop-Up Markets: Plan Around These Highlights

🎨 Snowflake Market

Held in one of Potch’s most iconic buildings, the old Snowflake flour mill, this market blends heritage with creativity. Expect a mix of handmade items, baked goods, vintage finds, and live music echoing through the silos. There’s usually coffee on tap and sometimes even a gin stand or art exhibit upstairs. A must-visit for both locals and out-of-towners.

🗓️ First weekend of every month

📞 018 293 0649 / 082 850 1200

🧺 Die Dromers Mark

This dreamy market lives up to its name, relaxed vibes, open lawns, and vendors who clearly love what they do. Perfect for picking up gifts, decor, or just chilling with a cold drink on a sunny day while the kids play. It’s one of those places you go for “just a look” and leave with a full bag.

🗓️ Selected Saturdays (check social pages)

📞 082 379 9218

🎓 VARS Market

Just across from the NWU campus, this market leans into student culture — second-hand clothes, quirky thrift, tasty street food, and budget-friendly stalls. Great for younger crowds or anyone looking for an affordable, creative vibe. It also gives young entrepreneurs a platform, which is great to see.

🗓️ Monthly during varsity term

📞 079 195 5899

🧺 Rooy Food Market

Rooy Food Market is Potchefstroom’s vibrant community food and lifestyle event, a bustling blend of artisan eats, handcrafted treasures, and live entertainment (including acoustic and local bands like J & B or The Staccatos).

Held at Van Rooyen Hall on Piet Bosman Street (with no entrance fee!), it welcomes all ages with a lively car-boot sale, kids’ entertainment (such as a bubble house and pony rides), and diverse offerings, think fresh herbs, spicy sauces, home-baked treats, and unique crafts, perfect for a relaxed Sunday outing with friends and family

💬 Why Supporting Markets Matters

Every jar of jam, every handmade item, every plate of food sold at a market means a local entrepreneur is growing their business. It also keeps money circulating within Potchefstroom, not being sent to head offices far away.

You’re not just buying a product. You’re buying someone’s hard work, their story, their side hustle. And in today’s economy, that makes a big difference. Markets also build community. They’re places where strangers start chatting over koeksisters, where students and families share tables, and where we remember what’s good about living in a town like Potch.

Potchefstroom is more than just a stop on the N12, it’s a living, breathing community. And our markets show that off better than anything. If you haven’t visited one in a while, now’s the time.

Bring a friend. Support local. And enjoy the simple things that make Potch feel like home.

🔗 Browse the full market list here: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/home-services-potchefstroom-all/things-to-do---markets