The Rounds Arcade in the Bundaberg CBD will host a new Christmas market as local businesses come together to bring new energy and vibrancy into the heart of the city.
The initiative comes at the same time that Council launches the Safe Spaces, Thriving Places campaign which focuses on reclaiming the Bundaberg CBD.
The Bundaberg Regional Council initiative is designed to highlight the importance of the city centre while encouraging the entire community to help keep the CBD alive.
One business ready to be part of this push is The Floral Chapter, a boutique tucked inside The Rounds Arcade where books, blooms and beautiful gifting can be found.
Owner Millee Barr, who opened her space earlier this year, said the campaign’s focus on vibrancy and connection aligned perfectly with her vision for the arcade and her love for the CBD.
“I love Bundaberg’s charming and unique shops – no two are the same,” she said
“We’re surrounded by incredible small businesses with so much personality and there truly is something for everyone.
“Being part of that community is really special.”
This December, Millee is bringing the arcade to life with a brand-new Christmas market, transforming the space into a festive hub on the same night as Bundaberg’s beloved Pageant of Lights.
“I absolutely love Christmas and gift-giving,” she said.
“Bundaberg has so many talented local creators and I wanted to bring them together for something special heading into the festive season.
“I’ve heard so many people say how perfect the arcade would be for markets and I’ve dreamed of it too.
“With the arcade now almost full of tenancies, it felt like the right moment to showcase both our local makers and the beautiful businesses within the arcade.”
The market will feature 15 stalls showcasing earrings, authors, handmade art, pottery, florals and more.
Millee said scheduling the event alongside the Pageant of Lights also tapped into the festive buzz, helping to activate the CBD while encouraging people to support local.
“I love the sense of community and the Christmas magic it brings,” Millee said.
“Families come together, the CBD comes alive and it feels like the perfect welcome to December.
“With so much foot traffic outside the arcade during the Pageant of Lights, it felt like the perfect opportunity to invite people into our wonderful arcade to explore what we have to offer.”
Millee said the Christmas market would also have cold drinks available while fellow businesses Amber Therapy would be open to serve coffee.
She said she hoped this first market would inspire further activation and creativity across the CBD.
“I’d love to see more events, more collaborations and more reasons for people to wander and explore the CBD,” Millee said.
“Markets like this are just the beginning of what’s possible.”
The Christmas market will coincide with Bundaberg Regional Council’s Pageant of Lights event, in Bourbong Street on Thursday 4 December from 5 pm.
A nice idea but trying to find a parking spot means I won’t bother.