Cruisin' Aussies: Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

Last Thursday night we went to the Mindil Beach Markets. It was a real eye opener on how Darwin does things their way.

In 1987 six people's vision to bring a taste of Asia's night markets to Darwin came to fruition. Mindil Beach Sunset Market supports over 300 small businesses, provides employment for more than 1000 locals and contributes more than $15 million to the Northern Territory economy each year. The Markets are renowned for the magnificent sunset over Mindil Beach and the relaxed, stunning tropical setting. Visitors can experience this in a vibrant, friendly and stimulating environment. On any given Thursday & Sunday throughout the dry season market patrons can enjoy the tastes of five continents, with over 1200 different menu items, and an extensive array of handmade craft including crocodile products, indigenous art and jewellery. Every week a variety of live entertainment is offered including live bands, street performers, cultural dance, acrobatics and fire shows.

It was an enjoyable and very different evening for us and we just watched in amazement as people in the hundreds started heading to the beach about a half hour before sunset - so we followed them. And the closer it came to sunset the more crowded it became. Even though the sunset wasn't spectacular that evening the atmosphere of the crowd was infectious as they 'waited with anticipation' and most had cameras.
We weren't too adventurous with our food choice - just ate chinese first course then a fresh tropical fruit salad with ice-cream. If possible we will go again before we leave.