Santa’s Salamanca Helpers the perfect Christmas companions

Published on 01 December 2023

This festive season, the City of Hobart will unveil a distinctive service for the first time with dedicated Salamanca Market volunteers ready to guide you through the market, helping you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.

They will be the perfect shopping companions on the four Saturdays leading into Christmas Day – December 2, 9, 16, and 23 – whether it be for gifts, food or decorations.

The City of Hobart’s enthusiastic team of volunteers is geared up to make your Christmas shopping a breeze.

Equipped with iPads loaded with creative gift ideas, they are your personal shopping information centres for navigating through the bustling market.

Acting Hobart Lord Mayor Helen Burnet said these volunteers embody the true spirit of the season, offering assistance and showcasing the diverse array of stalls.

“From handmade crafts to unique artisanal products, they'll help you discover treasures that go beyond the ordinary,” Cr Burnet said.

"Salamanca Market has always been a special place during the holiday season. This year, our volunteers add a new dimension, ensuring that every shopper finds that one-of-a-kind gift with a story."

Hobart City Economy Portfolio Chair Ald Louise Bloomfield highlighted the significance of supporting local businesses.

"Our goal is to remind locals that Salamanca Market is a hub for artisanal, environmentally conscious, and unique gifts,” Ald Bloomfield said.

“Let's make this Christmas about meaningful presents that support our stallholders and our community."

Christmas shopping can be overwhelming, especially when searching for gifts for a variety of people.

Salamanca Market offers a one-stop solution with over 300 stalls along Salamanca Place.

Ditch the online stores and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere as you explore a myriad of stalls, discovering everything you need for the holiday season in one outing at prices that may pleasantly surprise.

Salamanca Market Stallholder Association president Emma Hope said the market was the place to find that perfect Christmas gift.

“Salamanca stallholders are some of the most artistic and talented makers in the country and the market showcases the best Tasmania has to offer,” Ms Hope said.

“As cost of living pressures hit, stallholders are being hit even harder. The cost of doing business is through the roof.

“There has never been a more important time to support the 300 small businesses at Salamanca Market and make their Christmas merrier.”

Cr Burnet said this holiday season, choose delicious Tasmanian foods and beverages, and gifts with a personal touch.

“Opt for items that tell a story, gifts that are handmade and have a meaningful backstory,” Cr Burnet said.

“Say no to mass-produced, plastic Christmas and embrace the uniqueness of artisanal, locally crafted treasures that will be cherished beyond the holiday season.

“Experience the joy of Christmas shopping with Salamanca Market and let our volunteers guide you to the perfect gifts or incredible locally produced foods, beverages and decorations that truly capture the spirit of the season.”