Irene Village Market (Big Red Barn) - Image 1
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Irene Village Market Big Red Barn

4.3
·1k reviews·Olifantsfontein, South Africa

A vibrant market set in a forest, offering handmade crafts, delicious food, and fun activities at The Big Red Barn. Pet-friendly!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Beat the crowds, get best picks

CrowdMedium
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Irene Village Market (Big Red Barn) - Image 1

Irene Village Market Big Red Barn

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Beat the crowds, get best picks

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant market set in a forest, offering handmade crafts, delicious food, and fun activities at The Big Red Barn. Pet-friendly!

4.3
(1k reviews)

"An amazing market experience with a beautiful vibe, great crafts, and good food – a must for all!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Pet-Friendly Paradise

Bring your well-behaved dogs on a leash! They're welcome and will love the open space. :dog:

📅 Check Market Dates

Market is usually first & last Saturday of the month. Confirm dates before you go! :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisan Crafts & Goods

Artisan Crafts & Goods

Throughout the market

Discover unique, locally handmade arts and crafts from a wide array of talented entrepreneurs.

InstagramReddit
Delicious Food Stalls

Delicious Food Stalls

Food court area

Indulge in a variety of tasty treats, from traditional baked goods to gourmet food trucks.

Reddit+1
The Big Red Barn Activities

The Big Red Barn Activities

Adjacent to the market

Enjoy family fun with options like the 3D maze, Acrobranch, ziplining, and mountain bike trails.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Market Dates & Times

The Irene Village Market at The Big Red Barn is typically held on the first and last Saturday of each month. Arrive early to snag the best finds and avoid the biggest crowds, especially if you're looking for specific artisan goods. Instagram+1

Pet-Friendly Fun

This market is a fantastic spot for dog lovers, as pets are warmly welcomed! Just ensure your furry friends are on a leash and ready for a stroll through the beautiful grounds. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds, get best picks
Crowd
Medium
When
Late morning
Why
Enjoy live music & food
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The smile is coming together, prepare to be sick of me 😂😭 Dentist: Dr Yaya (@dryaya_dentalroom ) Location: Kemption Park & Olifantsfontein Telephone no(s): 0119707246 / 0113160257 #lethabosmother #bracesjourney
@general_kels_
6.3K likes • 83.3K views

🐾 Pet-Friendly Paradise

Bring your well-behaved dogs on a leash! They're welcome and will love the open space. Reddit+1 :dog:

📅 Check Market Dates

Market is usually first & last Saturday of the month. Confirm dates before you go! InstagramReddit :calendar:

After a very rewarding and much needed break we are at the new Irene Village Market at the Big Red Barn on Saturday. Hope to see you there. Come stock up on handcrafted natural bodycare products. #irenevillagemarket #naturalskincare #queenbeesoapco #queenbeesoapcompanysa #naturalhandmadesoap #naturalhaircare #naturaldeodarant #handandheelbalm #bodybalm
queenbeesoapcompanysa
2 likes • 112 views
💐The Irene Village Market 🗓️Open Every First and Last Saturday The Irene Village Market at The Big Red Barn is an arts and crafts market celebrating our 36th year. The market is famous for its locally handmade arts and crafts and is situated in a beautiful forest area. The market aims to create a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their products and a space where visitors can enjoy a local o...
pretoria_lifestyle
16 likes • 1.9K views

💰 Cash & Card Accepted

Most vendors accept cards, but having some cash is handy for smaller purchases. :moneybag:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the market and grounds. :athletic_shoe:

🎊 Come join us at the Irene Village Market at Big Red Barn in Irene, Pretoria ❤️ We will be there every Saturday for November and December 🥰 Come try our bubble pancakes and shaved snow ice. Bring your family, friends and neighbors because it will be #icetomeetyou ❤️ 🎈For more information please direct message us. #icetomeetyou #homemadedessert #homemadecake #desert #bubblepancake #pancake ...
icetomeetyou.za
723 likes • 277K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Pet-Friendly Paradise

Bring your well-behaved dogs on a leash! They're welcome and will love the open space. Reddit+1 :dog:

📅 Check Market Dates

Market is usually first & last Saturday of the month. Confirm dates before you go! InstagramReddit :calendar:

💰 Cash & Card Accepted

Most vendors accept cards, but having some cash is handy for smaller purchases. :moneybag:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes for exploring the market and grounds. :athletic_shoe:

📍 Location Details

Find us at 7 Nelson Rd, Sunlawn AH, Irene. Plenty of parking available. Instagram :round_pushpin:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Irene Village Market for its amazing atmosphere, diverse artisan crafts, and delicious food options. The pet-friendly nature and the array of activities at The Big Red Barn, like Acrobranch and the 3D maze, make it a fantastic destination for families and individuals alike. While generally positive, some may find it can get quite busy during peak hours.

"An amazing market experience. A lovely outdoor event on a monthly basis. Highly recommend. Lots of good food options. Great crafts and just a beautiful vibe. Definitely a must for all! The fact that dogs are welcome makes it even better."

David le Roux

"Good experience awaits!

Irene market is situated next to the Big Red Barn, Centurion.

The exhibitions are of a great variety and the food was very enjoyable. On our visit, we enjoyed live entertainment by musicians.

Animals are welcome, an enjoyable experience for families with dogs.

Spoil yourself and your loved ones with a leisurely stroll through paved paths in this beautiful market."

Ludwig Ehrke

"Great pet friendly place to visit.
The restaurant at the red barn is value for money and delious!!
The 3d maze is alot of fun. Will be back."

Roshni M

What People Like

Vibrant market atmosphere
Unique handmade crafts
Delicious food variety

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The market is located at 7 Nelson Road, Sunlawn AH, Irene. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use GPS navigation to find the exact location. InstagramReddit

Public transport options are limited for direct access to the market. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the Big Red Barn. Reddit

There is generally sufficient parking available at the Big Red Barn for market visitors. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a closer spot. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned, the area around the Big Red Barn is known for its scenic routes, and cycling could be an option for those living nearby. Reddit

The market has paved paths, making it generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The surrounding Big Red Barn area also offers various activities suitable for families. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically R10 per person. This small fee contributes to the upkeep of the market and grounds. InstagramReddit

The market is usually held on the first and last Saturday of each month, from 9 am to 2 pm. It's always a good idea to check their social media or website for specific dates. Instagram+2

No, advance booking is generally not required for the Irene Village Market. You can purchase your entrance ticket upon arrival. Instagram

The market celebrates various occasions, including Heritage Day, and often features live entertainment. Keep an eye on their announcements for special events. Instagram

The activities at the Big Red Barn, such as Acrobranch and the 3D maze, usually operate during market hours and sometimes extend beyond them. It's best to check their individual schedules. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors

You'll find a diverse range of handmade items, including natural skincare, artisanal soaps, clothing, decor, jewelry, and unique gifts. Instagram+2

Yes, the market boasts a fantastic selection of food vendors offering everything from baked goods and gourmet meals to specialty items like spices and sausages. Reddit+1

Yes, plant vendors are often present at the market, offering a variety of beautiful plants for your home or garden. Instagram

Most vendors at the Irene Village Market accept card payments, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or if a vendor's machine is down. Reddit

The Irene Village Market is the perfect place to discover unique local products, as it focuses on showcasing entrepreneurs and their handmade creations. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You can expect a wide array of delicious food, including baked goods like 'Ouma Bets Gebak', smoke food truck options, Hungarian spices, sausages, and more. Reddit+1

Yes, the Big Red Barn has a restaurant that is often praised for its value for money and delicious food. Reddit

Various stalls offer coffee, beverages, and refreshing drinks to complement your market experience. Instagram

While specific options vary, the diverse food stalls often include choices that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. It's best to inquire at the stalls. Reddit

Visitors rave about 'Ouma Bets Gebak', the smoke food truck, and specialty items like Hungarian spices and sausages. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The market's forest setting, colorful stalls, and the iconic Big Red Barn itself offer many picturesque opportunities. Capture the vibrant atmosphere and unique crafts. Instagram+1

It's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their specific products. Most are happy to oblige if you're respectful. Instagram

Generally, personal photography for memories is welcome. Professional or commercial photography might require prior arrangement. Instagram

A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the market's ambiance. If you have a DSLR, consider bringing a versatile lens. Instagram

The Big Red Barn itself is a great subject. Look for angles that capture its rustic charm, especially with the market stalls or activities in the foreground. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Irene Village Market at The Big Red Barn is an absolute winner for families. The pet-friendly policy means your furry companions can join the fun too! Reddit+1 Beyond the market stalls, the Big Red Barn offers a plethora of activities to keep kids entertained for hours. Think ziplining, a 3D maze, and even a BMX course. Reddit

Combine these activities with the diverse food options and the chance to browse unique crafts, and you have a recipe for a perfect family day out. The R10 entrance fee is also very budget-friendly, making it an accessible outing for most families. InstagramReddit

🐾 Pet Owners

If you're a pet owner, the Irene Village Market is a dream come true! It's explicitly dog-friendly, allowing your canine companions to join you for a leisurely stroll through the market and the surrounding grounds. Reddit+1

Just remember to keep your pets on a leash and be mindful of other visitors and their pets. It's a wonderful opportunity to socialize your dog and enjoy a day out together in a beautiful, welcoming environment. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds

For those who love discovering unique, handmade treasures, the Irene Village Market is a must-visit. The market prides itself on showcasing local artisans and entrepreneurs, offering a curated selection of crafts that you won't find anywhere else. InstagramReddit

From natural skincare and artisanal soaps to modern vintage fashion and home decor, there's a wide variety of high-quality goods to explore. It's the perfect place to find special gifts or treat yourself to something truly one-of-a-kind. Instagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Big Red Barn Experience

Beyond the market stalls, The Big Red Barn offers a hub of activity for all ages. It's a place where families can spend the entire day enjoying various attractions. The 3D maze is a popular challenge, while the Acrobranch provides thrilling treetop adventures with ziplining activities. For the more active, there are also mountain bike trails and a little BMX course. Reddit

This makes the market a destination that caters to more than just shoppers. It's an outing that combines browsing unique crafts and enjoying delicious food with exciting outdoor recreation. The restaurant at the Big Red Barn is also frequently mentioned as a great spot for a meal, adding to the overall appeal. Reddit

Visitors often express surprise at the sheer amount of activities available, highlighting it as a key reason for repeat visits. Whether you're looking for a relaxed market stroll or an adventurous day out, The Big Red Barn delivers. Reddit

Artisan Spotlight: Handmade Treasures

The Irene Village Market is renowned for its commitment to showcasing locally handmade arts and crafts. This focus ensures a unique shopping experience, far removed from mass-produced goods. You can find everything from natural skincare and handcrafted soaps to modern vintage clothing and intricate decor items. Instagram+2

Vendors like Queen Bee Soap Company and TSimage are examples of the entrepreneurs who bring their passion and skill to the market. They offer products that are not only beautiful but also often made with care and attention to detail. This is a prime opportunity to support small businesses and find one-of-a-kind pieces. Instagram+1

When exploring the stalls, take the time to chat with the artisans. They are often happy to share the story behind their creations, adding an extra layer of appreciation to your purchases. It’s this personal connection that makes the Irene Village Market a truly special place to shop. InstagramReddit

A Foodie's Paradise

Prepare your taste buds for a treat at the Irene Village Market! The food offerings are a major draw, with a diverse range of vendors satisfying every craving. From traditional South African delights like 'Ouma Bets Gebak' to international flavors from smoke food trucks, there's something for everyone. Reddit+1

Don't miss out on specialty items such as Hungarian spices and sausages, which have been highlighted by visitors as particularly delicious. The market also features stalls offering refreshing drinks, coffee, and sweet treats, perfect for a leisurely day out. The restaurant at the Big Red Barn itself is also a popular choice for a more substantial meal. Reddit

With so many tempting options, it's easy to make a day of sampling the culinary delights. Many visitors recommend trying a variety of stalls to get the full gastronomic experience the market has to offer. Reddit

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