After more than a year of Covid induced sleep, the Rainbow Chai Tent is officially coming back to the Channon Craft Market - but with a difference.

So, pack your drums, musical instruments and get ready to take off your shoes and dance on May 9 (Mother’s Day), at the next Channon Market.

Some locals call the Chai Tent the heart of the market and make a trip out to the Channon especially toward the end of the day to join in the fun and grab a chai or coffee and cake and lounge on the carpets at the tent.

Market manager Robyn Kelly said it’s an extra special occasion this year, as it marks the 40th anniversary of the Rainbow Chai Tent.

“It hasn’t been the same without it,” she said. “We are so excited to have it back.”

Changes

There will be a few unexpected changes though.

“We will move the chai tent onto the oval near the car park where the Silky Oaks are, so there is more room and shade too,” Robyn said. “We will trial it and may move it there for every market after that.”

History

Robyn said the Rainbow Chai tent was originally brought to the market 40 years ago from Victoria, by Michael Jack, Megan and her mum Liffy.

The original tent material eventually wore out and was replaced – and the new tent even made an appearance at the Bentley CSG blockade a few years ago.

Restrictions

Robyn said Covid social distancing restrictions still apply and she asks people to self distance, unless they are in an immediate family group.

“People will have to sign in when they enter market with a QR code and there will be places around the market they can do it too,” she said.

“We’d like people to only come to the market if they are well. If you are sick, please stay at home.

Mothers’ Day

“The day is set to be a beautiful Mother’s Day and we have a bus tour from Casino travel shop arriving and they will be doing a big luncheon for stall holders in the oval as well.

“If people want to explore the village, they can also go to the Channon café for a drink and while the market is alcohol-free, they can visit the Channon Tavern for a beverage."

The Channon Craft Market is on every second Sunday of the month - and people are asked to leave any pets at home.  

To find out more, visit the Channon Craft Market website