Young market trader 2026
Are you aged 16-30 and want to start or build on your own business? The Young Market Trader event is your chance to show off your business skills and products. The event is a collaboration between Wakefield District Markets and Wakefield First.
Location: Castleford Indoor Market
Date: Saturday 16 May 10am till 4pm
Location: Wakefield Outdoor Market
Date: Wednesday 20 May 10am till 4pm
Location: Ossett Outdoor Market
Date: Saturday 4 July 10am till 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 three winners, who will get a place at the regional final in Barnsley on Saturday 1 August 2026, with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF).
Winners of the regional event will then progress onto the National final in Stratford-upon-Avon on August Bank Holiday weekend 2026.
Last year’s Wakefield winner
Last year’s Wakefield winner (Chilli Chava) went on to win both the regional and the national final!
What you will get
At Castleford, traders will be provided with a gazebo and table.
At Wakefield, traders will be provided with a gazebo and will need to provide their own tables.
At Ossett, traders will be provided with a market stall.
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 30 April for Castleford and Wakefield, and 31 May for Ossett