A Complete Visitor Guide to The Big Design Market 2026
As Australia's premier event for independent design, The Big Design Market Melbourne is returning to the Royal Exhibition Building this May. For local makers, small business owners, and design lovers, it is the perfect place to discover what's next in the creative scene.
This year’s 'Almost Winter' edition brings together over 250 brands, blending traditional craftsmanship with fresh, modern aesthetics. You will find everything from ethically made ceramics and designer fashion to boutique stationery and contemporary DIY tools.
Whether you are hunting for premium homewares, looking to catch the latest market trends, or just planning a great weekend outing, we have rounded up everything you need to know before you arrive.
Image: Blake Walshe
Key Information for The Big Design Market Melbourne 2026
This year’s edition is packed with brilliant talent, mouth-watering local food, and show-stopping visuals. Here is where and when the magic happens:
- Dates: 22 to 24 May 2026
- Location: Royal Exhibition Building, 9 Nicholson St, Carlton VIC
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Opening Hours:
- Friday: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Must-See Highlights at The Big Design Market 2026
The organisers have pulled out all the stops for this event. Make sure you don't miss:
- 250+ Independent Brands: Get ready to shop a handpicked selection of ethically made ceramics, designer fashion, premium jewellery, bespoke tech accessories, boutique stationery, adorable kids' items, and premium pet wares.
- Xue Fei Art Installation: Renowned for her vibrant, nature-inspired illustrations, special guest artist Elaine Li (Xue Fei Art) is transforming the main hall with a massive, immersive art installation and a custom-designed creative play area.
- The Epic Visitor Prize: Feeling lucky? This year, there is a massive Visitor Prize up for grabs featuring a premium collection of top-tier designer goods valued at over $1,200 AUD.
- Gourmet Food & Drink: Refuel with over 75 premium local food vendors. Favourites like Ca Com, Ugo Burrata Bar, and Wonderbao will be serving up delicious bites, alongside craft coffee and cocktails.
The Big Design Market Tickets and Entry Details
Getting into the event is affordable, leaving you with more budget to support local creators (or invest in your own craft!). You can easily secure your spot via the official booking page.
Important Note: Tickets are valid for a single-day entry, but you do not need to specify which day you plan to attend when booking. Also, keep in mind that The Big Design Market is a 100% cashless event. Most stallholders will accept EFTPOS and credit cards.
Win Free Tickets to The Big Design Market 2026
Planning to explore the market? We would love to treat you to a free ticket! To celebrate the vibrant maker community in Australia, eufyMake is giving away 20 free entry passes.
Visit our official giveaway event page to claim your chance to win. Lucky winners will not only receive a free admission ticket but also secure an exclusive custom printing experience at our booth. See you there!
Experience Custom UV Printing with eufyMake at Booth A0
While exploring the endless aisles of beautiful handmade goods at the market, you might just feel inspired to start creating your own custom pieces.
After taking home the "Best in Show" award at SXSW Sydney, the eufyMake team is thrilled to bring our creative tools to Melbourne. We are setting up at Booth A0 to give you a hands-on look at the eufyMake E1, our consumer-grade 3D texture UV printer.
It is designed to print vibrant, raised textures directly onto materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and metal. Whether you are a small business owner looking for new creative tools or simply a DIY enthusiast, it is the perfect chance to see how easy it is to add a premium, tactile finish to everyday items.
Take a break from shopping and come hang out with us! Here is what we have lined up for you:
- Live UV Printing Demonstrations: Watch the E1 in action and run your fingers over the textured prints.
- 1-on-1 Chats: Got a creative idea? Talk with our team about how UV printing could work for your own projects.
- Spin to Win (100% Win Rate!): Step up to our lucky wheel to score exclusive custom gifts, including Melbourne-inspired coasters, brand fridge magnets, stickers, and a 'build-your-own' charm.
Getting to the Royal Exhibition Building
Located in Carlton, getting to the venue is straightforward:
- Public Transport: Save yourself the stress of city driving by catching the 86 or 96 tram straight to the Melbourne Museum stop. Alternatively, take a train to Parliament Station and enjoy a quick, scenic 10-minute walk through the Carlton Gardens.
- Parking: If you prefer to drive, the most convenient option is the Melbourne Museum undercover car park (entrance on Nicholson Street). There is also limited metered street parking in the surrounding streets of Carlton.
4 Insider Tips for the Best Experience
1. Beat the Rush for Showbags
The exclusive Designer Showbags are notorious for selling out fast. If you want one, plan to arrive right as the doors open at 10:00 am on Saturday/Sunday (or 11:00 am on Friday).
2. Bring a Reusable Tote
With so many standout independent brands to shop from, you are going to need something sturdy to carry your finds. Bring your favourite canvas tote bag!
3. Dress for 'Almost Winter'
Melbourne weather in late May can be famously crisp. Wear comfortable layers so you can stay warm outside but cool off once you are inside the bustling exhibition hall.
4. Plan Your Hit List
With over 250 exhibitors, the hall will be packed. Check out the exhibitor directory on the official website beforehand so you can map out your must-visit booths.
Between the massive Xue Fei Art installation, the endless aisles of local talent, and the chance to upgrade your own creative toolkit, this year's market is going to be brilliant. Grab your favourite tote bag, bring your creative spark, and we will see you at Booth A0!
