The Teenage Market will return to Carlisle city centre this Saturday, 11 April, bringing a lively celebration of young entrepreneurial talent and live performances to the heart of the city.
Hosted by Cumberland Council and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the market will take place in the city centre’s pedestrianised area. The event will showcase 18 stalls run by young traders aged between 10 and 22 from across Cumberland. Visitors can browse a diverse range of unique, locally made gifts and treats, while showing their support for the next generation of makers, creatives and budding business owners.
For two traders the market is truly a family affair with brother and sister, Harrison and Evie, aged 11 and 9 both having stalls, their mum Sarah told us why the siblings wanted to take part:
“Evie took part in her first Teenage Market in April last year with her jewellery business, Evie’s Handmade Treasures, and she thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Harrison has been creating 3D‑printed items for some time, and after seeing how much Evie enjoyed the market – and how successful she was on the day – he was inspired to take part himself. The Teenage Market is a fantastic initiative and we’re really looking forward to being involved again, especially as this time the whole family is getting involved.”
Alongside the stalls, the Teenage Market will also host a programme of live performances from young singers and musicians from across the area, helping to create an enjoyable atmosphere and giving young performers a chance to share their talents with the public.
Erin, 14, from Bassenthwaite, will be performing at her third Teenage Market. A talented singer‑songwriter who also plays acoustic guitar, Erin shared what performing at the market means to her:
“I wanted to perform because it's a great opportunity to practice playing in front of people and helps me to gain more experience. I really love doing this and can't wait for the next one!”
In addition, free face painting will be available from 12pm to 2pm, offering an extra activity for families visiting the city centre.
Open to anyone aged between 8 and 25 years the Teenage Market offers young people the opportunity to try a business idea and gain experience of making, selling and marketing their own products in a risk-free environment.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places at Cumberland Council said:
“I am delighted to see the Teenage Market continuing to go from strength to strength, providing our young people with valuable opportunities to trade and perform in a vibrant retail environment. The continued success of the market reflects the growing community of young entrepreneurs across the Cumberland area. With the weather looking more favourable, I hope even more visitors will feel encouraged to come along and enjoy the day. Everyone taking part will have invested a great deal of time and effort in preparing their stalls and performances, and I hope as many people as possible will come along to support these talented young people.”
The Teenage Market will run from 10am to 3.30pm on Saturday 11 April, and shoppers are encouraged to come along, enjoy the entertainment and support local young talent. Cash payments are preferred.