The Alstonville Markets will return this Saturday for its third market day, offering a diverse range of local products and a boost for the community.

The market, which takes place on the third Saturday of each month, will be held from 8:30 am to 2 pm at the Alstonville Showground. This 100% community-driven event, with proceeds going back into the community, has quickly become a popular destination for local shoppers and vendors.

Since its launch in October, the market has grown in popularity, attracting over 100 stallholders and a waiting list for vendors.

Rod Bruem, Alstonville Chamber member, highlighted the market's success, stating, "It's been very popular since our first October market. We've been fully booked with a waiting list."

The market provides a low-cost platform for budding entrepreneurs and local businesses, charging $50 for a stall site.

"People love markets. I think markets have a strong following in this region. They're a big part of our economy. That's my observation since moving here," Rod added.

​The Alstonville Markets aim to fill a void left by the closure of the Lismore Car Boot Market, offering a general market with a focus on arts, crafts, gifts, and locally produced goods. While the market does feature some local produce, such as fruits, vegetables, and meat, it primarily focuses on arts, crafts, gifts, and other locally produced items to complement existing farmers' markets in the region.

The market's strategic location in the Alstonville village draws crowds from both the coast and inland, with visitors travelling from as far as Casino and the Richmond Valley.

The organisers will decide whether to continue the market next year after reviewing feedback from stallholders and marketgoers about the Saturday time slot.

"We have a sort of joint committee between the chamber and the society," explained Rod.

"We said that we would trial these three markets this year and then decide what we're going to do next year. But I think we're all fairly decided at this stage. We will continue next year, and, more than likely, we'll probably continue with the same Saturday format."

The Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital is the charity partner for the December market. The Alstonville Markets will take a break in January and are expected to return in February.