Spring is here, the evenings are getting warmer, and Bedford is giving Johannesburg another reason to stay out a little longer.
On Friday, 11 September 2026, the Bedford Sunset Market returns to Bedford shopping centre for an evening of food, local finds, live entertainment and easy-going socialising under the stars.
Running from 4pm to 10pm, the market will take over the Open Deck Parking at Entrance 2, bringing together artisan food, independent makers, local brands and live entertainment.
Presented in partnership with The Urban Markets, the event is designed to offer something for everyone — from food lovers hunting for their next favourite bite to shoppers looking for something different from local creators and small businesses.
A taste of spring in Bedford
Food will be at the heart of the experience.
Visitors can expect gourmet street food, food trucks and speciality treats, creating plenty of choices for dinner, dessert or an indulgent snack while exploring the market.
But the Sunset Market is about more than what is on the menu.
The event will also showcase a varied collection of fashion, décor, crafts, handmade goods and local products, giving visitors the opportunity to browse and discover offerings from independent makers and small businesses.
It is the kind of Friday evening where there is no need to rush.
Grab something to eat. Find a new local favourite. Sit down and enjoy the atmosphere. Then stay a little longer.
When the sun goes down, the music comes up
With warmer spring weather setting the scene, the market is designed around a relaxed outdoor experience.
Comfortable seating areas will give visitors a place to settle in with something to eat, while live music and acoustic performances provide the soundtrack as the afternoon moves into evening.
And for families and groups of friends, the September edition will also feature family-friendly activities, adding another reason to make the market part of the weekend plans.
Bedford after hours
The Bedford Sunset Market has become an opportunity to experience the shopping centre from a different perspective.
Rather than simply being a place to shop, the open-air parking deck becomes a social space where people can meet, eat, browse and enjoy live entertainment after hours.
For Linda Linnow, General Manager of Bedford, spring provides the perfect backdrop for bringing the community together.
“Spring is the perfect time to bring people together, and the Bedford Sunset Market gives our community an opportunity to connect, discover something new and enjoy Bedford after hours.”
She adds that Bedford is looking forward to welcoming families and friends for a relaxed Friday evening and a strong start to the new season.
Make Friday night a little different
The appeal of the Bedford Sunset Market is simple: it brings together food, shopping, entertainment and community in one open-air setting.
Whether visitors arrive looking for dinner, something handmade, a new local product or simply a relaxed way to ease into the weekend, the market offers an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the evening.
As Johannesburg settles into spring, Bedford is opening its doors after hours and inviting the community to make the most of the season.
The Bedford Sunset Market takes place on Friday, 11 September 2026, from 4pm to 10pm at the Open Deck Parking at Entrance 2.
For more information and updates, visit Bedford Centre or follow @bedfordcentre on social media.
