5 markets in January to start your year right

We’ll tell you right now that your 2018 resolution to save money won’t come to fruition—especially since market frenzy isn’t slowing down. Kick off the new year with old favorites like the monthly farmers market at Loewen Gardens, or head to EarthFest for some sustainable steals.

Katong Square Lifestyle & Vintage Market (Jan 12-14)

A new month calls for a new Katong Square market, which, with its vinyl records and vintage goods, touts itself as Singapore’s only true blue vintage flea market. Resident booths include familiar names like The Retro Factory, Memory Lane and The Great Vinyl Exchange; but be sure to hit up the “casual booths” for preloved bargains.

Where: Katong Square

Farmers’ Market at Loewen Gardens (Jan 13)

Your resolution to save money may be a lost cause, but the one to eat healthier doesn’t have to be. The trusty Farmers Market at Loewen Gardens is back on the second Saturday of the New Year, with a good mix of organic vegetables, bread, wine, olive oil and fresh honey on sale. This month, brands to catch include Avo & Co., Foster Foods and BottlesXO.

Where: 75E Loewen Road

EarthFest 2018 (Jan 14)

Look forward to more than just a market at the third edition of EarthFest, which will take over the Marina Barrage for a one-day only extravaganza. There will be a food fair of planet-friendly foods, a farmers market featuring local businesses and their sustainable products, and an eco-carnival with low-carbon games. In addition, vendors and guest speakers will be sharing on fair trade, local and organic food, responsible investing, biodegradable options, waste and more; so come hungry to learn. Admission is free but limited to those who reserve a spot here.

Where: Marina Barrage

Singapore Really Really Free Market (Jan 14)

It’s true, it’s free—really. The pop-up market centered on the concept of building community through sharing resources is back and open to all. The free-for-all extends from items like books, CDs, toys and clothes to skills like tarot card reading and poetry writing. This edition’s organized in conjunction with EarthFest, so heads up that non-vegan items are not allowed.

Where: Marina Barrage

The Luggage Market (Jan 21 onwards)

A new weekly market has arrived in town, and its purpose is to make all flea vendors’ lives easier. Starting from Jan 21, The Luggage Market will take place every Sunday at The Adelphi, with over 45 booths selling exclusively preloved wares. Bargain hunters can also look forward to a curated section of quality preloved clothing every week, from local fashion reseller Refash. But wait, there’s more. To better serve vendors who want to set up shop at the market, The Luggage Market provides additional services like easy pickup and transportation of luggage from designated pickup points around the island, straight to the booths on market day. Best of all, they’re partnering Refash to buy unsold clothes at a quoted price, so you’ll never have to lug home an unsuccessful selling day’s worth of clothing again. Booth fees are also affordably priced at $86 per booth, which you can book here. For sure, we’re all crushed the *SCAPE fleas died some few years back, but this looks like it could be a worthy substitute.  

Where: The Adelphi