Kinvara Market is for the people, by the people, with many of its members and those in the community bringing their own story to the table of what it means to them.
An inside glance
The current chairman, James Prendergast, has been in the position for three years. Ahead of the markets’ reopening on Friday, March 13, 2026, James is keen to share not only the history, but also to celebrate the future of this iconic feature of Kinvara.
“There was always a market in Kinvara, in the square, going back to the 15th century. Corn, livestock, fish and all of the commodities produced in the locality were sold. Going into the 50’s and 60’s, there was a market in the square every Friday, which dissolved in the times that followed.
“In 2009, a committee came together, and they resurrected the market because they felt the need for a local farmer’s market for local produce. The first market was then held in the garden of Johnson’s Hostel. It proved a great success in this idyllic setting, and with this came growth. It was decided in 2013 to move to the Market Square.
“From there, it moved to the current location on Courthouse Road. No matter the location, the belief in providing an outlet for local producers remains. The market is non-political, and everyone involved are big believers in sustainability and the circular economy.
“Every Friday from March to October, you can find local sellers on Courthouse Road from 10am to 2pm. It is a lively affair with local musicians where everybody is welcome, young or old, local or visiting, to come for a chat, meet, and share stories. It is an outlet for people on a Friday.
James and the entire committee are hoping to see as many people enjoying the produce and atmosphere tomorrow at the re-opening: “That is what we want the message to be. Kinvara Farmers Market is the place to go on a Friday.”
There are set to be between 15 and 20 stalls on Courthouse Road tomorrow, with all of the regular sellers making an appearance. Go and meet old friends, or create new ones over the tables of plants, fresh fish, eggs, second-hand books, bagels, various local crafts, crepes, juice, bakes and coffee.
The wider benefits
Kinvara Tidy Towns’ chair, Hilda O’Grady, highlighted the wider benefits that the market has on the Kinvara community and surrounding areas with its shop local message.
“Kinvara Tidy Towns promotes a different stall holder every Friday, promoting our #shoplocalfirst ethos. We run the shop’s local sustainability campaign every year from March to October. 2026 will be our fifth year promoting the market.
“We are SDG Champions designated by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, and sustainability awareness and making conscious decisions to shop local, buy high-quality local vegetables, goods and crafts is a key sustainability initiative.”
Tribute to Michael Staunton
Michael Staunton, during the 60’s and 70’s, kept the market going in the square with his creative personality. Written by his daughter, Pauline Harkin, this tribute reflects the legacy of both the market itself and the sellers.
“Michael Staunton was more than a man selling fruit and vegetables in Kinvara — he was part of the heart of the community.
“On a Friday morning, people came not just to buy vegetables, but for the chat, for a bit of company, for somewhere to go. After collecting the pension, the market became a place to meet, to talk, and to feel connected. Michael was always there at the centre of it.
“He kept the market going with his mad hats and kind words, bringing a smile and a welcome to everyone who stopped by. He bought locally from farmers, supporting the land and the people around him, and keeping that sense of community alive.
“It was not just a stall. It was a place people gathered.
“Michael was part of the fabric of what makes Kinvara special, a true character whose presence meant more than words.”
Kinvara Farmers Market will run every Friday from March to October 2026, on Courthouse Road.
