Coinciding with the arrival of summer is the return of Tiny Traders Village, where what begins as a slow, early-morning setup quickly unfolds into a bustling, colourful scene filled with handmade products, food trucks, and an array of both new and familiar faces. With a new season of market days on the horizon, we caught up with some of the traders who have returned year after year to bring this market to life. Check out our conversation here...
What truly sets their market days apart is the atmosphere. You feel it the moment you arrive and all your senses are instantly immersed in its vibrancy. “Our market days are so full of life in every way possible,” shares Deirdre Burton and Michael Flynn of Deirdre Burton Design and Grey West Wood Design. “We meet amazing people from all over the world and form genuine connections.”
above: photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
For many, that’s what keeps them coming back. “The Tiny Traders is not just any regular market; it is a community,” says Cian Kirby of Perfect Scent. “You get to speak to the owners of each company and see the passion each person has for what they do.” That sentiment is a recurring theme. “My favourite thing about market days is talking to customers, especially when you’re selling products you make yourself,” says James McCudden, who runs Blackthorn Candles. “It’s really inspiring to be trading with so many talented people.”
As the day builds into the height of the midday rush, the market transforms. “By 10am, Eyre Square has gone from a bleak, lonely plaza to a colourful hive of activity,” explains Andy of Andy’s Spelt Treats. “Market days, no matter the weather, are electric - a rainbow of colour and traders from all corners of Ireland.”
SKETCHIO artist Kerry Quinlan, sums it up best, “It feels like a celebration of Galway - showcasing local makers, great food, music, and a mix of tourists and locals all just enjoying the day together.”
With its next season fast-approaching, it’s clear that the impact of Tiny Traders goes way beyond a single summer. For Cian, it played a defining role in the story of Perfect Scent. “We now have over five thousand customers and are Ireland’s highest-rated perfume brand. I’m sure that if it wasn’t for Tiny Traders, we wouldn’t be where we are right now.”
above: photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
For many traders, the friendships formed, the support shared, and the sense of belonging have made the market feel like a second home. It’s something they credit, in no small part, to Paul David Murphy and their fellow traders. “There’s a great feeling of comradery among the traders. We look out for each other,” shares Ireland on Silk’s Fiona Bradley. “I can’t wait to see all the traders again and catch up,” adds Andy.
Despite an overall dip in tourism, 2025 was Tiny Traders’ most successful year to date, something organiser Paul David Murphy attributes not just to tourists, but to Galway locals. Now as Tiny Traders sets up for another season at Eyre Square and the Spanish Arch, with additional plans to expand into Salthill and possibly extend its run, the goal is simple: “Another good year,” says Paul David Murphy, and, well, if the past is anything to go by, that’s already well within reach.
Follow everything Tiny Traders has planned for 2026 on social media @tinytradersvillage.
Photos courtesy Tiny Traders Village.
