Young Traders Market 2025

Two women stood in front of a display at a market

Are you aged 16 to 30 and want to start or build on your own business? Our Young Traders Market events are your chance to show off your business skills and products to the people of Wakefield and beyond.

Location: Pontefract Outdoor Market
Date: Saturday 21 June, 10am to 4pm.

How it works

Once submissions close, we'll review and shortlist applicants. You'll then receive your allocated gazebo.

During the event, traders will compete against each other and be judged by a panel.

There will be up to three winners, who will get a place at the regional final in Barnsley Friday 1 and Saturday 2 August 2025, with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF).

Winners of the regional event will then progress onto the National final in Stratford-upon-Avon on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 August 2025.

Last year’s Wakefield winner (Herd and Hive) went on to win both the regional and the national final!

A woman in a market stall surrounded by soaps

What you will get

All traders will get a free gazebo and table in the event space at Pontefract Outdoor Market.

How to apply

Email letstalkmarkets@wakefield.gov.uk with the subject line YTM EVENT. You’ll get further information and receive an application pack.

Applications are open until 31 May 2025.

Apply now

Applications for the Young Traders Market taking place in Castleford are now closed.

Please come along and support our young traders on 24 May, between 10am and 4pm!