Marchnad Lleu, a monthly community market, arose from a desire to empower local residents who were trying to grow, create and share their goods with the community. With a focus on promoting local food and crafts, the market provides a welcoming space for producers and artisans to showcase their talents and offerings.
Visitors can browse stalls full of homemade treats, locally sourced produce, and beautifully crafted items, as well as enjoy affordable home-cooked food along with tea, coffee or a soft drink at Caffi Tylluan.
But Marchnad Lleu is much more than a market; it is a gathering place where neighbours come together to connect, chat and support each other. There are information sessions on everything from food hygiene to herbalism from local experts, as well as activities that are fun for the whole family such as salsa dancing or seed planting. Charities are also given the chance to have a free stall and fundraise free of charge.
“We have had paper making, animal encounters, a Climate Science for Beginners talk, defibrillator training, school uniform swaps – you name it,” says Michelle, Marchnad Lleu’r Treasurer. “We try to have something for everyone, and there’s a different theme every month.”
The core team behind Marchnad Lleu had already met through the Extinction Rebellion (XR) group in Dyffryn Nantlle. They were later reunited at the GwyrddNi Community Assemblies on the Climate, where they decided to form a local Transition Cafe in Penygroes. Marchnad Lleu later emerged as a response to the need and desire for sustainable alternatives and community engagement.
“We hope to encourage the local circular economy making us self-sufficient and self-reliant,” the team says on their new website.
Whether you are a local producer keen to share your creations or a member of the community who wants to support local businesses, there will be a warm welcome for you at Marchnad Lleu.
Marchnad Lleu takes place on the 3rd Saturday of the month at Neuadd Goffa, Penygroes – 10am-1.30pm. Visit the website for more information: https://marchnadlleu.co.uk or join the Facebook group to make sure you are up-to-date with the latest news.
GwyrddNi is a community-based, community-led climate action movement that brings people together in five areas of Gwynedd to discuss, share and act locally to tackle climate change.
If you want to be part of co-creating greener, more sustainable and resilient communities – get in touch – or click the button below to let us know how you’d like to be involved. We will get back to you and connect to you to most appropriate person/people!