ABC Borough Council plans 14 artisan markets in 2026, up from nine in 2025. Economic Development and Regeneration committee members approved the expansion in December 2025.

The markets aim to grow the local economy and sustain market activity. They support traders and strengthen communities. Priority goes to makers and producers near each host town.

Markets feature hand-made products such as hot food, baked goods, pet accessories, health products, jams, chutneys, candles, stationery, flowers, clay items, and organic spa products.

The 2026 season started April 18 in Lurgan Plaza from 10am to 3pm after rescheduling from April 4 due to weather. Dromore Market Square hosts the next on April 25 from 10am to 3pm.

Further dates include Banbridge Solitude Park on May 23, Lurgan Park on May 30, Banbridge BuskFest town centre on June 20 from 12pm to 5pm, and Portadown Pleasure Gardens on June 27, all from 10am to 3pm unless noted.

August events are Armagh Shambles Yard Bluesfest on August 1 from 1pm to 6pm and Portadown Magowan West Car Park on August 29 from 10am to 3pm. Dromore Market Square follows on September 19 from 10am to 3pm.

Armagh Shambles Yard hosts a Halloween evening market at The Johnston Building on October 30 from 4pm to 8pm. November closes with markets linked to Christmas light switch-ons in Banbridge, Dromore, Lurgan, and Portadown.