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A Journey Through Ireland’s Market History
Discover the vibrant and storied history of Irish markets with us! From the spirited Traders Protest that blocked O’Connell Street traffic in 1985, to the significant redevelopment of Cork Market in 1973, each event paints a vivid picture of the resilience and dynamism of our market communities. Dive into the charming legacy of Donnybrook Fair, and take a nostalgic trip to Dublin’s Dandelion Market in the 1970s, where the unique culture and bustling energy of market life come to life. Join us as we explore these remarkable milestones in Ireland’s rich market heritage.
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Cork City Council Casual Trading Bye-Laws — What’s New in 2025?
The final implementation of the 2023 Bye-Laws, which moved into a new phase in 2025. The regulations focus on modernizing Cork’s street trading by formalizing licenses for high-footfall areas like Harley Street and the city’s public parks. A key focus for 2025 is the strict enforcement of environmental standards, specifically requiring all traders to eliminate single-use plastics and adopt sustainable waste management practices to align with national climate goals. You can read more here: IOMST: Cork City Trading What’s New and Cork City Council Public Notice
Galway Traders Call for Action on St Nicholas’s Market Upgrades
May 3, 2025
This Connacht Tribune a reports on the growing frustration among traders at the historic St Nicholas’s Market in Galway over the lack of essential investment. Sixteen traders issued a formal complaint to the City Council, highlighting critical issues such as the absence of electricity, running water, and toilets, as well as hazardous street surfaces and poor lighting. Beyond infrastructure, the group has called for stricter enforcement of trading bye-laws to prevent inactive license holders from “locking out” a new generation of enthusiastic traders who want to bring fresh life to the 400-year-old market. You can read the full story here: Galway traders up in arms at state of St Nicholas’s Market
Regulating Dublin's On-Street Food Kitchens
This Irish Times article from March 2025 reports on a controversial move by Dublin City Council to regulate on-street “soup runs” and food kitchens by requiring them to obtain casual trading licences. The new measures are aimed at ensuring that volunteer-led food services meet professional health and safety standards, follow food hygiene regulations, and hold appropriate public liability insurance. While the council maintains these steps are necessary to ensure the dignity and safety of service users, many charitable groups have criticized the move, arguing that the added bureaucracy and licensing requirements could force vital, grassroots supports for the homeless off the city’s streets. You can read the full story here: On-street food kitchens for Dublin’s homeless to be regulated with casual trading licences
Cork City Council Adopts New Casual Trading Bye-Laws
The Cork City Casual Trading Bye-Laws 2023, which came into effect on March 1, 2024, set out the modern regulations for street trading across the city’s designated markets and parks. These laws mandate that all traders hold a valid license, maintain €6.5 million in public liability insurance, and strictly adhere to a ban on single-use plastics in favor of compostable alternatives. Annual fees range from €600 for traditional spots like Cornmarket Street to €2,800 for high-demand park locations, ensuring a regulated and sustainable environment for local commerce. You can read the full document here: Cork City Casual Trading Bye-Laws 2023
Dublin City Council issues tender for Moore Street Market operator
November 22, 2021
Dublin City Council’s move to revitalize Moore Street by issuing a tender for a new market operator. The initiative aims to restore the iconic street to its former glory by introducing a wider variety of stalls and evening trading, complementing the traditional street traders who have been the heart of the area for generations. You can read the full story here: Dublin City Council issues tender for Moore Street market operator
Dublin City Council announces new book market in St. Patrick’s Park
September 13, 2021
This Dublin People article from September 2021 announces the launch of a new weekly book market held every Sunday in St. Patrick’s Park. Set against the backdrop of the iconic cathedral, the market aims to provide a platform for local booksellers and create a vibrant cultural space for readers and visitors to enjoy. You can read the full story here: New book market held every Sunday in St. Patrick’s Park
English Market Cork
May 10, 2021
This Irish Examiner article from May 2021 details a significant legal victory for the Iveagh Trust as they secured the rights to reclaim Dublin’s historic Iveagh Market. The report explains how a “reverter clause” in the original 1906 deed allowed the family to take back the site from a developer, paving the way for a long-awaited restoration of the iconic Liberties landmark. You can read the full story here: Iveagh Trust regains control of Dublin’s Iveagh Market
‘Legal status’ of Moore Street
May 3, 2021
Moore Street’s Future Sparks Division Within Advisory Group
This Irish Times article from May 2021 reports on a significant split within the Moore Street Advisory Group, the body tasked with overseeing the future of the historic Dublin site. The “rift” emerged over the legal status and role of the Moore Street Preservation Trust, highlighting ongoing tensions between developers’ plans and those advocating for the full preservation of the area as a 1916 Rising revolutionary quarter. You can read the full story here: Rift opens in Moore Street group tasked with vision for historic locality
€20 million plan proposed to develop Dublin’s Iveagh Market
February 10, 2021
By John Kilraine London Correspondent.
RTÉ News report from February 2021 covers a major development in the battle over the Iveagh Market, as Lord Iveagh successfully invoked a “reverter clause” to reclaim ownership of the site. The article details the legal shift in control from a private developer back to the Iveagh Trust, sparking new hope for the restoration of the historic Liberties landmark. You can read the full report here: Lord Iveagh takes possession of Dublin’s Iveagh Market
Veteran Dublin street trader
January 14, 2021
Wed, Jan 13, 2021, 17:10 Updated: Wed, Jan 13, 2021, 17:29 Conor Pope, Sarah Slater
Irish Times.
Irish Times article pays tribute to Tessie Carroll, a legendary Dublin street trader who passed away at the age of 88. Known as a “true Dub,” Tessie spent over 60 years selling clothes and bric-a-brac at the Cumberland Street North market, becoming a beloved fixture of the city’s traditional trading community. You can read the full tribute here: Veteran Dublin street trader Tessie Carroll dies aged 88
Victorian Dublin Market Regeneration 2014
December 20, 2020
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RTÉ Archives report from 1993 outlines the ambitious plans to transform the Smithfield area of Dublin into a major tourist and marketplace hub. The clip discusses the proposed redevelopment of the historic Fruit and Vegetable Market and the surrounding district, reflecting a pivotal moment in the city’s urban planning history. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Plans For Dublin Market
New Starts At Flea Market 2012
December 19, 2020
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RTÉ Archives clip from 2011 visits the Dublin Flea Market in the Newmarket area of the city, capturing the vibrant mix of vintage finds and secondhand treasures. It highlights how the market became a popular community hub for bargain hunters and those seeking a unique alternative to high-street shopping. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Dublin Flea Market
The Iveagh Market Due to Return
Iveagh Market Dublin (1986) This archival news report from 1986 provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Iveagh Market during its final years of operation. It highlights the building’s stunning Edwardian architecture and its long-standing importance as a hub for Dublin’s traditional street traders. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Iveagh Market Dublin
Mystery Market Trader (1986) RTÉ Archives is seeking the public’s help to identify a market trader captured in a candid 1986 photograph at her clothes stall in the Iveagh Market. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the individuals who formed the heart of this historic marketplace on Francis Street. You can view the photo and help identify her here: RTÉ Archives: Who is this Market Trader?
Dublin street traders slate ‘unfair’ ban on Christmas stalls
November 13, 2020
City Council says decision taken for health and safety reasons amid Covid-19 pandemic
This Irish Times article from November 2020 reports on the “devastating” decision by Dublin City Council to ban traditional Christmas street stalls on Henry Street and O’Connell Street due to Covid-19 concerns. It captures the frustration of multi-generational trading families who argued the outdoor ban was unfair while indoor shops were permitted to remain open. You can read the full story here: Dublin street traders slate ‘unfair’ ban on Christmas stalls
Smithfield Horse Fair To Close? 2008
November 12, 2020
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RTÉ Archives report from 1993 visits the historic Smithfield Horse Fair in Dublin, capturing a tradition that has been part of the city’s fabric for hundreds of years. The clip features interviews with traders and visitors, highlighting the unique atmosphere of the market and the debate surrounding its future in a rapidly modernizing urban environment. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Smithfield Horse Fair
Save 16 Moore Street 2005
October 30, 2020
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RTÉ Archives report from 1966 explores the historical significance of 16 Moore Street, the final headquarters of the leaders of the 1916 Rising before their surrender. The clip features a visit to the house and interviews with those advocating for the preservation of this landmark as a national monument to Irish history. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: 16 Moore Street
Oysters and Craic in Galway 1995
October 12, 2020
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RTÉ Archives report from 1968 celebrates the opening of the world-famous Galway Oyster Festival at Clarinbridge. The footage captures the traditional ceremony of the opening of the first oyster and the lively social gathering that marks the start of the oyster season, showcasing a tradition that has become a major highlight of the Irish cultural calendar. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Galway Oyster Festival
Macnas at the Galway International Arts Festival 1994
September 30, 2020
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RTÉ Archives report from 1991 looks back at the growth of the Galway International Arts Festival as it transformed the city into a vibrant cultural hub. The clip features street spectacles, music, and theatre, highlighting how the festival evolved from its humble beginnings into one of Ireland’s premier artistic events. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Galway International Arts Festival
Hunters Jumpers Donkeys At Galway Fair 1991
September 12, 2020
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This RTÉ Archives report from 1985 explores the famous Ballinasloe Horse Fair in County Galway, one of Europe’s oldest and largest events of its kind. The clip captures the unique atmosphere of the fair, from the traditional “wheeling and dealing” of horse trading to the lively fairground attractions that draw thousands of visitors every year. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Ballinasloe Horse Fair
Limerick Market Renewal 1988
September 12, 2020,
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RTÉ Archives clip from 1984 captures the bustling atmosphere and timeless character of Limerick’s famous Milk Market. It features interviews with the local traders and shoppers who share the history and community spirit that have made this market a city landmark for generations. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Limerick Milk Market
Bagging A Bargain In Dublin Markets 1992
August 12, 2020
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RTÉ Archives report from 1982 visits three of Dublin’s most iconic traditional markets: the Iveagh Market, the Daisy Market, and the Cumberland Street Market. The footage provides a nostalgic look at the unique characters and bargain-hunting culture of the inner city, capturing a way of life that has faced significant change over the decades. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Three Dublin Markets
Hothouse Flowers Take To The Streets 1988
August 12, 2020
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RTÉ Archives report from 2006 captures the energy and excitement of the first-ever Street Performance World Championship held in Dublin’s Merrion Square. The clip showcases a variety of world-class entertainers—from sword swallowers to acrobats—as they compete for the title and delight crowds of all ages. You can watch the full video here: RTÉ Archives: Street Performance World Championship
The Heartland Of Old Limerick 1987
July 12, 2020
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The Old Potato Market,
This RTÉ Archives report from 1987 looks at the history and uncertain future of the Potato Market in Limerick city. The footage provides a tour of the site, which had served as a vital trading hub for generations but was facing significant decline and dereliction by the late 1980s. The report features interviews with locals and historians who discuss the market’s architectural importance and its role in the social fabric of Limerick, while highlighting the urgent need for a restoration plan to preserve the historic area for future commercial or community use. You can watch the full archive clip here: Limerick Potato Market – RTÉ Archives
Galway Street Traders Protest BROADCAST: 1986.JUN.24
June 12, 2020
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Street traders say attempts by the Galway City Council to move them from the streets may result in them joining the dole queues. This RTÉ Archives report from 1986 documents a standoff between street traders and the local authorities in Galway City. The footage captures the traders’ protest against proposals by Galway City Council to move them from their traditional locations to a designated market site. In interviews with reporter Jim Fahy, traders like Gerry Devaney express fears that being relocated would destroy their business and force them onto the dole. The report also features the Mayor, Alderman Bridie O’Flaherty, who outlines the council’s perspective on the need for regulation and the specific relocation offers made to the trading community. You can watch the full archive clip here: Galway Street Traders Protest – RTÉ Archives
Street Traders Dispute BROADCAST: 1986.DEC.18
May 12, 2020
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The High Court refused to grant a licence to Dublin street traders to enable them to trade legally. This RTÉ Archives report from 1983 covers a heated dispute between street traders and the Dublin Corporation regarding the enforcement of the Casual Trading Act. The footage features traders from the Moore Street and Henry Street areas as they air their grievances over the introduction of new licensing laws and the high costs associated with them. The report captures the tension on the ground as traders argue that these regulations threaten their traditional livelihoods and the unique character of Dublin’s street markets, highlighting a period of significant friction between the authorities and the city’s long-standing trading community. You can watch the full archive clip here: Street Traders Dispute – RTÉ Archives
Déjà Vu For Vintage Clothes 1986
April 12, 2020
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Specialising in garments from the 1950s and the Victorian era, vintage clothes shop Déjà Vu in Limerick is a must for dedicated followers of fashion on the look-out for something a bit different sartorially. This RTÉ Archives report from 1986 visits a vintage clothes shop in Limerick city, highlighting the growing trend for retro fashion among young people. The footage features interviews with the shop’s owner and customers, who discuss the appeal of high-quality garments from previous decades as an affordable and stylish alternative to modern high-street clothing. The report captures the eclectic interior of the store and provides a look at the emerging second-hand market and subculture that sought to preserve and wear the fashions of the past. You can watch the full archive clip here: Limerick Vintage Clothes Shop – RTÉ Archives
Jonesborough Market BROADCAST: 1986.DEC.07
March 12, 2020
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Fine Gael Teachta Dála (TD) calls for removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) in border areas to stop people going north for their Christmas shopping. This RTÉ Archives report from 1983 investigates the bustling activity at the Jonesborough Market in County Armagh, located just across the border. The footage captures thousands of shoppers from both sides of the border flocking to the open-air market in search of bargains on everything from clothes and toys to household goods. The report explores the unique economic atmosphere of the site, highlighting how the combination of currency differences and lower prices created a thriving commercial hub that transcended the political tensions of the era. You can watch the full archive clip here: Jonesborough Market – RTÉ Archives
Second International Galway Busking Festival 1985
March 12, 2020
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Galway strengthens a growing reputation as a busking destination by hosting a festival for street performers. This RTÉ Archives report from 1985 captures the lively atmosphere of the first-ever National Busking Festival held in Galway City. The footage follows a variety of street performers, musicians, and entertainers as they compete for prizes and showcase their talents to large crowds gathered in the city’s narrow streets. The report highlights how the festival aimed to celebrate street culture and provide a platform for buskers, further cementing Galway’s growing reputation as a vibrant center for the arts and open-air performance. You can watch the full archive clip here: Galway Busking Festival – RTÉ Archives
Cabra Woman Wins Molly Malone Competition 1985
February 12, 2020
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Dublin Corporation announces the first winner of a competition for street traders. This RTÉ Archives report from 1985 features the presentation of the “Best Stall” award on Moore Street, a competition organized to celebrate and encourage the high standards of the local traders. The footage showcases the winner, Mary O’Connor, and her beautifully arranged fruit and vegetable stall, highlighting the pride and dedication that the Moore Street traders bring to their work. Through interviews with the organizers and traders, the clip captures the vibrant community spirit and the enduring importance of traditional street markets in the heart of Dublin’s social and commercial life. You can watch the full archive clip here: Winner of Best Stall on Moore Street – RTÉ Archives
Traders Protest Blocks O’Connell Street Traffic 1985
January 12, 2020
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Seven arrested as trouble breaks out at street traders demonstration on O’Connell Street, Dublin. This RTÉ Archives report from 1982 covers a protest march through Dublin city centre by hundreds of street traders and their supporters. The demonstration was organized to voice opposition against the then-new Casual Trading Act, which traders argued would impose restrictive license fees and eliminate many traditional trading pitches. The footage captures the marchers as they make their way to Government Buildings, highlighting the intense frustration of the trading community who felt their livelihoods and a centuries-old Dublin tradition were being threatened by excessive bureaucracy and high costs. You can watch the full archive clip here: Street Traders Demonstration – RTÉ Archives
“The Wrapping Paper Five for Twenty” 1985 Henry Street
December 23, 2019
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Henry Street, Dublin, at Christmas is packed with traders and shoppers. This RTÉ Archives report from 1985 (originally broadcast on Evening Extra) features reporter Aonghus McAnally as he immerses himself in the bustling atmosphere of Henry Street during the height of the Christmas shopping season. The footage captures the essence of a traditional Dublin Christmas. You can watch the full archive clip here: Christmas Traders on Henry Street – RTÉ Archives This 1985 Henry Street report shows the same footage of Aonghus McAnally learning how to sell wrapping paper from the local traders.
Portlaoise Updates Casual Trading Bye-Laws to Include New Market Stalls
December 20, 2019
Portlaoise has officially updated its casual trading bye-laws to include 30 market stalls along Peppers Lane and Market Square. These stalls will operate every Friday from 8am to 3pm, following requests from local traders and feedback gathered through public consultation. This update aims to support local traders by providing a dedicated and regulated space for market activity, ensuring a well-managed environment that benefits both traders and the wider community. The formal recognition of these trading areas is a positive step in strengthening Portlaoise’s vibrant market culture and local business growth.
What It Means for IOMST Members
For traders operating in or near Portlaoise, the updated bye-laws present a valuable opportunity to secure a pitch in a well-organised, council-approved market space every Friday. Traders should reach out to Portlaoise Municipal District to understand licensing requirements and any operational guidelines. Maintaining valid liability insurance and staying informed about local regulations remain essential to a successful trading experience. For more details on the updated casual trading bye-laws in Portlaoise, visit the official council website:
Street Traders Charges Dropped BROADCAST: 1985.SEP.04
December 5, 2019
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Dublin street traders have charges struck out. This RTÉ Archives report from September 1983 covers a significant legal victory for Dublin’s street traders. The report details the scene at the Dublin District Court where charges against 55 street traders—mostly from the Moore Street and Camden Street areas—were dropped. The traders had been charged with obstructing the footpaths and trading without licenses. You can watch the full archive clip here: Street Traders Charges Dropped – RTÉ Archives
Galway Festival Hot Spot 1984
December 1, 2019
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The sun shines and temperatures soar for the Galway street festival marking five hundred years of the city. This RTÉ Archives report from 1986 documents a vibrant and high-energy Street Festival in Galway City. The footage captures the city’s transformation into a hub of performance and celebration during the festivities. It features:
- Street Performers & Music: Musicians, clowns, and entertainers filling the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter.
- The Atmosphere: A look at how the local community and visitors embraced the carnival-like spirit, showcasing Galway’s burgeoning reputation as a cultural and festival capital.
- Community Engagement: Interviews with organisers and participants about the importance of bringing art and performance directly to the people on the streets.
You can watch the full archive clip here: Galway Street Festival – RTÉ Archives
Kids at Christmas 1983
November 12, 2019
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In the lead up to Christmas in 1983 ‘Anything Goes’ hit the streets of Dublin and spoke to children about Christmas. This RTÉ Archives report from 1984 captures the festive spirit on the streets of Dublin as Christmas approaches. A reporter takes to the city’s busy shopping thoroughfares to ask people of all ages—from excited children to busy adults—the classic seasonal question: “What are you getting for Christmas?” The clip provides a nostalgic look at the popular gifts and trends of the mid-80s, reflecting the hopes and expectations of the Irish public during the recession-hit decade. Beyond the gift lists, the footage offers a wonderful social snapshot of Dublin’s street life, fashion, and the timeless buzz of the city’s Christmas rush. You can watch the full archive clip here: What Are You Getting For Christmas? – RTÉ Archives
Busking On Grafton Street 1983
July 5, 2019
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Dublin’s Grafton Street now free of traffic has become a stage to many performers including The Diceman. This RTÉ Archives report from 1984 captures a pivotal moment for Dublin’s Grafton Street, which had recently been pedestrianised. The footage focuses on the rise of street entertainers and buskers who flocked to the street once cars were removed. It features a variety of performers—from traditional musicians and puppet shows to more unconventional acts—and explores the mixed reactions from local shopkeepers and the public. While some welcomed the “carnival atmosphere,” others expressed concerns about noise and sidewalk congestion, sparking early debates about how street performance should be regulated in the city’s premier shopping district. You can watch the full archive clip here: Grafton Street Entertainers – RTÉ Archives
Axe Falls on Dandelion Market 1981
June 22, 2019
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Dublin’s Dandelion Market moved to Gaiety Green next to Saint Stephen’s Green in 1973 where it remained until development of the Saint Stephen’s Green shopping centre got under way. This RTÉ Archives report from December 1980 captures the final days of the legendary Dandelion Market in Dublin. Located off Stephen’s Green, the market had become a beloved cultural landmark for the city’s youth, offering everything from alternative fashion and second-hand records to affordable food. The report documents the sadness and frustration of both traders and shoppers as the site was cleared to make way for the development of the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre. You can watch the full archive clip here: Dandelion Market Demise – RTÉ Archives
Smithfield Market End of Era For Dublin Market 1979
June 12, 2019
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Dublin looks set to lose Smithfield Market where livestock and goods have been bought and sold since the 17th century. This RTÉ Archives clip from 1979 marks the “End of an Era” for Dublin’s Smithfield Market. The report covers the February 1979 decision by Dublin Corporation to officially close the market for the sale of livestock, hay, and straw, effective April 2, 1979. While the site had been a hub for trade since the 17th century, the corporation noted that no actual livestock sales had taken place there for seven years prior to the closure. The footage features John Sweeney, the proprietor of CH Dodd & Co., a firm that had been selling hay and straw in Smithfield since 1750. As the last trader remaining at the time of the announcement, Sweeney discusses the dwindling trade in the age of the motor car but maintains that a demand for his products still exists. You can watch the full archive clip here: Smithfield Market to Close 1979 – RTÉ Archives
Rolls Royce Aristocrat of The Road 1977
December 12, 2018
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Even Rolls Royce owners shop at jumble sales where one person’s junk is another’s gold. This RTÉ Archives report from 1982 explores the niche world of the “Auto Jumble” market in Ireland. The footage features enthusiasts and traders at a vintage car parts fair, where rare components for classic vehicles are bought, sold, and swapped. It highlights the growing popularity of car restoration as a hobby and the specialized market that developed to support people looking for everything from brass lamps to obscure engine parts for their “old timers.” You can watch the full archive clip here: Auto Jumble Business – RTÉ Archives
Last Christmas For Moore Street? 1975
December 12, 2018
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In spite of the threat of redevelopment, it is business as usual on Moore Street in Dublin with shoppers seeking last minute Christmas bargains. This RTÉ Archives report from 1967 captures the electric atmosphere of the Christmas rush on Moore Street. The footage shows the market at its most frantic, with the legendary street traders in top form, shouting out deals on everything from turkeys to holly. It provides a wonderful glimpse into a mid-century Dublin Christmas, where the narrow street was packed shoulder-to-shoulder with shoppers looking for the best bargains for their festive dinner. You can watch the full archive clip here: Moore Street Christmas Rush – RTÉ Archives
How has Moore Street Changed? 1974
November 25, 2018
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A look back to 1974 with the programme ‘The Humours of Moore Street: An Impression in sound and vision of a Dublin market place’. This RTÉ Archives report from 1974 provides an evocative look at Moore Street during a period of transition in Dublin’s city center. The footage focuses on the legendary street traders and their famous banter, capturing the sights and sounds of the open-air market while also addressing the looming threat of modern commercial development and how it might impact the traditional way of life for the families who had traded there for decades. You can watch the full archive clip here: Moore Street 1974 – RTÉ Archives
Buskers on Grafton Street 1974
November 12, 2018
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Buskers on the corner of Grafton Street and Stephen’s Green, Dublin. This RTÉ Archives report from 1980 outlines the then-controversial proposals for the redevelopment of Dublin’s Moore Street. The footage examines plans to build a modern shopping centre on the site, featuring interviews with the iconic street traders who express deep concerns that the development would destroy the traditional character of the market and threaten their livelihoods, which in many cases had been passed down through generations. You can watch the full archive clip here: Moore Street Plans – RTÉ Archives
The Heart of Dublin 1973
November 12, 2018
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How will the plans for the redevelopment of Moore Street affect the old Dublin market? This RTÉ Archives report from 1980 outlines the then-controversial proposals for the redevelopment of Dublin’s Moore Street. The footage examines plans to build a modern shopping centre on the site, featuring interviews with the iconic street traders who express deep concerns that the development would destroy the traditional character of the market and threaten their livelihoods, which in many cases had been passed down through generations. You can watch the full archive clip here: Moore Street Plans – RTÉ Archives
Redevelopment of Cork Market 1973
October 12, 2018
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Cork Corporation invites property developers to submit proposals for one of the city’s oldest and most distinctive shopping amenities. This RTÉ Archives clip from 1978 explores the daily life and unique atmosphere of the Grand Parade Market (the English Market) in Cork city. The footage highlights the traditional stalls and the famous “Stall 47,” featuring interviews with the legendary traders and customers who discuss the market’s reputation for high-quality local produce, particularly its renowned tripe and drisheen, which have long been staples of the Cork diet. You can watch the full archive clip here: Grand Parade Market in Cork – RTÉ Archives
Row Over Cork Market Proposals 1972
November 12, 2017
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Modern development is a threat to the 184 year old food market in Cork city. This RTÉ Archives report from 1982 examines the ambitious plans by Cork City Council to refurbish and modernize the English Market following a devastating fire in 1980. The footage discusses the balance between preserving the market’s unique historic character and introducing modern facilities, featuring interviews with traders who share their hopes and concerns for the future of the landmark site as it prepared for a major redevelopment. You can watch the full archive clip here: Cork Plans To Develop English Market
A Visit to Dublin’s Dandelion Market 1970
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This RTÉ Archives report from 1972 takes a look inside the legendary Dandelion Market on Stephen’s Green in Dublin. The footage captures the bohemian atmosphere of what was then a thriving alternative hub for fashion, music, and crafts, featuring interviews with young traders and shoppers who explain how the market provided a unique space for counter-culture and affordable style in the heart of the city. You can watch the full archive clip here: Dandelion Market – RTÉ Archives
Wheeler Dealer At Kenmare Fair 1967
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A fast talking street trader cajoles customers into buying coats from his stall at Kenmare Fair in County Kerry. This RTÉ Archives clip from 1982 features a memorable encounter with a charismatic street trader in Tralee, County Kerry. The footage captures the high-energy sales pitch of a traveling coat seller at a local market, demonstrating the quick wit, rhythmic banter, and persuasive performance style that have long been a hallmark of traditional Irish market trading. You can watch the full archive clip here: The Kerry Coat Seller – RTÉ Archives
Dear Santa, I Hope You Are Well 1967
November 12, 2015
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A young girl gives her thoughts on Christmas from Henry Street, Dublin. This RTÉ Archives clip from 1961, titled “Dear Santa,” offers a charming and nostalgic look at children’s Christmas wishes from over sixty years ago. The footage captures young Dubliners visiting Santa Claus at the iconic McBirney’s Department Store at O’Connell Bridge, where they share their hopes for classic toys like dolls, trains, and tea sets, providing a heart warming glimpse into the simple joys of a mid-century Irish Christmas. You can watch the full archive clip here: Dear Santa – RTÉ Archives
The Dublin Horse Show 1965
September 12, 2015
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An increase in the number of ponies and Ladies’ Day at the Dublin Horse Show. This RTÉ Archives report from 1985 captures the glamour and style of “Ladies’ Day” at the Dublin Horse Show in RDS, Ballsbridge. The footage showcases the high fashion and elaborate millinery of the era, featuring interviews with attendees and judges as they discuss the evolution of the competition and what it takes to win the coveted “Best Dressed Lady” title at one of the highlights of the Irish social calendar. You can watch the full archive clip here: Ladies’ Day at the Dublin Horse Show
Puck Fair in Killorglin 1965
May 12, 2015
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Every year Killorglin holds the three-day Puck Fair, the oldest traditional fair in Ireland, and one of the oldest non-religious fairs in the world. This RTÉ Archives feature celebrates the 400th anniversary of Puck Fair in Killorglin, County Kerry, one of Ireland’s oldest and most unique festivals. The report looks back at the deep-rooted traditions of the fair—from the crowning of the wild mountain goat as “King Puck” to the bustling livestock trading and street festivities—while reflecting on how the event has maintained its ancient charm and cultural significance through four centuries of history. You can watch the archive coverage here: Puck Fair 400th Anniversary
Dublin Fruit and Vegetable Market 1962
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This RTÉ Archives film from 1962 captures a bustling morning at Dublin’s Victorian Fruit and Vegetable Market on Mary’s Lane. The footage offers a rare look at the mid-century market in full swing, showcasing the rapid-fire auctions, the traditional dress of the traders, and the organized chaos of horse-drawn carts and early delivery vans as they moved produce through the heart of the city. You can watch the full archive clip here: Dublin’s Victorian Fruit and Vegetable Market 1962
New Dublin City Markets Development Plan
October 22, 2014
Dublin City Council have finally submitted their application for the redevelopment of the Victorian Fruit and Vegetable Market and surrounding area into a new combined Retail Food Market. On paper, the development looks exciting and should bring Market trading in Dublin back on par with the likes of Corks’ English Market and the Milk Market in Limerick, having lacked such a facility for many years.
Bananas on the Breadboard – Stories from the Market Areas of Dublin
Bananas on the Breadboard’ is a 52 minute documentary celebrating life and traditions in the markets area of Dublin’s North West Inner City.
Through archival footage and heartfelt interviews, the film explores the history of the Smithfield area, the old fish market, and the iconic fruit and vegetable markets. It places a special focus on the generations of women street traders who defined the city’s character, featuring the final interview with TD Tony Gregory and a contribution from football legend Johnny Giles, whose mother was a local trader. You can watch the documentary and learn more here: Bananas on the Breadboard – Joe Lee
A Brief History of Donnybrook Fair
A fascinating look back at the history of the Donnybrook Fair, which dates back to a Royal Charter granted by King John in 1204. Originally established as a 15-day livestock and merchandise market, the fair evolved over centuries into a massive, often chaotic event famous for its revelry and “Donnybrooks” (brawls). The article traces its journey from a vital medieval trade hub to its eventual suppression in 1855, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the word “Donnybrook” into a global synonym for a free-for-all fight. You can read the full history here: A Brief History of Donnybrook Fair
