The Saturday Good Market at the Colombo Racecourse is a vibrant weekly event that brings together 70 to 80 vendors approved by the Good Market initiative. Here, you’ll find fresh organic fruits and vegetables, natural food and snacks, ethical fashion, handmade toys, home and garden supplies, non-toxic body products, and much more. The market is held every Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM at the Nuga Tree Car Park next to the Colombo Racecourse Grounds. Additionally, Good Market operates a retail outlet located at 14, Independence Avenue, Colombo 07, focusing on food items for health-conscious consumers.
What to Expect at the Saturday Good Market
Visitors can expect an exciting selection of organic produce, Ayurvedic products, garden supplies, and fair trade handicrafts. It’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking natural and sustainable products in a lively community atmosphere. You’ll also find stalls offering books, non-toxic household items, and unique local crafts—perfect for those interested in ethical shopping.
- Fresh organic produce (fruits, vegetables, herbs)
- Non-toxic body and home supplies (health-conscious products)
- Ethical fashion, handmade crafts, and more
- Live music and kids’ programs to entertain the whole family
- Massage services for relaxation
Brief History of the Good Market
Founded in 2012, the Good Market was created to support local farmers, artisans, and small businesses by providing a platform for them to sell fresh, organic produce and handmade goods directly to consumers. The market was established as part of a larger movement focused on promoting sustainability and local production.
The Good Market Retail Outlet
In addition to the Saturday market, Good Market operates a retail outlet in Colombo, open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. This outlet focuses on organic food items such as vegetables, sauces, chutneys, canned goods, and gluten-free products. While prices may be slightly higher than those of regular supermarkets, the market ensures all products are natural, pesticide-free, and cater to the health-conscious.
What’s There at the Good Market in Colombo?
The Good Market in Colombo is a bustling marketplace offering a variety of products and experiences that highlight local culture, organic living, and sustainable practices. Whether you’re a health-conscious shopper, a food lover, or a fan of handcrafted goods, the market has something for everyone.
Fresh Produce at the Good Market
The Good Market is renowned for its fresh organic produce and locally sourced goods. You’ll find a wide selection of:
- Organic Fruits and Vegetables: Seasonal produce grown locally, often certified organic for the health-conscious shopper.
- Fresh Beverages: Enjoy freshly made juices, smoothies, and locally brewed coffee from various vendors.
- Prepared Food Stalls: A delightful mix of Sri Lankan dishes, local snacks, and international cuisines served at food stalls throughout the market.
Artisanal and Natural Products
If you’re looking for unique, handmade items, the Good Market is the place to be. You can discover:
- Artisanal Pottery and Textiles: Handcrafted home décor, textiles, and pottery created by skilled local artisans.
- Natural and Organic Goods: Discover handmade soaps, skincare products, and other eco-friendly items that support a sustainable lifestyle.
Specialty Items You Won’t Find Elsewhere
The market is also home to specialty items that stand out for their uniqueness and quality, such as:
- Baked Goods: Freshly baked bread, pastries, and delectable desserts.
- Specialty Food Products: Unique Sri Lankan ingredients like locally made granola, organic teas, sun-dried tomatoes, coconut flour, and macadamia oil.
Community Activities and Engagement
The Good Market is more than just a place to shop. It’s a vibrant community hub where visitors can engage in various activities, such as:
- Workshops: Learn new skills through hands-on workshops on cooking, crafts, or sustainable living.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances from local musicians, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
- Children’s Activities: Family-friendly activities are often available for children, making it an ideal destination for all ages.
Social Spaces for Relaxation and Interaction
The Good Market provides comfortable spaces where visitors can relax, enjoy their food, and socialize:
- Social Areas: Take a break and enjoy your purchases with friends or family in relaxed seating areas.
- Live Artists and Entertainment: Experience performances from magicians, portrait artists, henna tattoo artists, and massage therapists who add to the lively vibe.
What Makes the Good Market Unique?
The Good Market is a vibrant blend of local food, artisan crafts, and community engagement. It’s more than just a shopping experience—it’s a place where people come together to share ideas, enjoy entertainment, and discover unique, sustainable products. With its focus on organic living and supporting local businesses, the Good Market offers a one-of-a-kind experience for all who visit.
Location & Accessibility of the Good Market
The Good Market is conveniently located at No. 14, Independence Avenue, in Colombo 07, near significant landmarks in the city. It’s easily accessible and situated in a prime area close to various attractions.
How to Get There
The Good Market can be reached by several modes of transport:
- Own Vehicle: If you prefer driving, the market has ample parking space available for visitors.
- Taxi: A quick taxi ride will take you directly to the market from various parts of Colombo.
- Public Transit:
- Bus: Take bus 138 from Fort or 154 from Bambalapitiya to reach the market conveniently.
- Other Transport Options: Local tuk-tuks or ride-hailing services like Uber or PickMe are also popular options.
Entrance Fees
There is no entrance fee to visit the Good Market. It’s open to everyone, whether you’re just browsing or planning to shop.
Opening Hours
- Saturday Market: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, every Saturday
- Retail Outlet (for mainly food items): 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
Who Should Visit?
The Good Market at Colombo is a family-friendly destination that caters to a wide range of visitors. Whether you are a local or a tourist, there’s something for everyone:
- Families & Kids: With its open, vibrant atmosphere and occasional children’s activities, the market is perfect for a fun family outing.
- Tourists: Explore a variety of locally made goods, fresh organic produce, and enjoy Sri Lanka’s lively culture all in one place.
- Couples: It’s a great spot for couples to stroll hand-in-hand, enjoy delicious food, and take in the lively ambiance together.
No matter your age or interest, the Good Market is an experience that brings people together with its unique blend of food, arts, and culture.
What You’ll Benefit From Visiting
Visiting the Good Market offers numerous benefits, making it an enriching experience for everyone:
- Healthier Lifestyle: Enjoy fresh, organic fruits, vegetables, and other food products, promoting a more health-conscious diet.
- Unique Discoveries: Find handmade goods, artisanal crafts, and specialty items that make for great gifts or personal treasures.
- Educational Opportunities: Participate in workshops or events to learn more about sustainability, cooking, or crafting.
Whether you’re looking to support local businesses, improve your diet, or learn something new, the Good Market is a one-stop destination for all these and more.
Instagrammable Spots at the Good Market
The Good Market is full of photogenic spots that will elevate your social media game! Here are some must-capture moments:
- Vibrant Produce Stalls: The colorful, fresh organic fruits and vegetables create a lively and dynamic backdrop for your photos. Capture the textures and colors of seasonal produce.
- Handmade Goods: The unique, locally crafted items like pottery, textiles, and jewelry make for great close-up shots, showcasing the creativity of Sri Lankan artisans.
- Live Performances: The live music adds an energetic touch, and the performers make great subjects for capturing the lively atmosphere of the market.
- Community Interaction: Document the meaningful interactions with local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. Whether it’s sampling fresh fruit or chatting with a craftsman, these moments make for authentic, engaging photos.
Don’t forget to capture the lively spirit of the market—there’s no shortage of Instagrammable moments at every turn!
Amenities & Surroundings
Food Availability
After browsing the stalls, take a break at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants:
- Cafes: Cricket Club Café, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, London House of Coffee, Café Francais, Black Cat Café, Café Kumbuk, Tea Lounge by Dilmah, Butter Boutique.
- Restaurants: Flow, Park Street Mews, Long Feng, Flag & Whistle, The Sizzle, Bamboo Boy, Upalis by Nawaloka, The Barnesbury, OAK Ray Wood Carvings, Roccos.
Toilets:
Available at the market for convenience.
Hotels Nearby
For accommodations, you have a variety of options near the market:
- Cinnamon Red
- Jetwing Colombo Seven
- Cinnamon Lake
- Cinnamon Grand
- The Gall Face
- ITC Ratnadeepa
- Hilton
- Galadari
- Taj Samudra
- The Kingsbury
- Shangri-La
Personal Insights
What Was My Experience?
Wandering through the Good Market, I was immediately struck by the variety of unique products and the vibrant atmosphere. The fresh produce stalls were filled with colorful fruits and vegetables, and I enjoyed chatting with local farmers about their organic farming practices. Sampling seasonal fruits and homemade snacks made my experience even more memorable.
As I left the market, I felt fulfilled, knowing that I had supported local businesses while learning more about sustainable practices. The blend of delicious food, handmade items, and a chance to connect with the community made my visit to the Good Market a truly meaningful experience.
