National Young Traders competition returns to Wakefield district
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Residents are invited to enjoy a fantastic mix of stalls from budding entrepreneurs as the Young Traders Market competition returns to local markets across the Wakefield district.
The events will run from 10am to 4pm at:
- Castleford Indoor Market – Saturday 16 May
- Wakefield Outdoor Market – Wednesday 20 May
- Ossett Outdoor Market – Saturday 4 July
The Young Traders Market celebrates talented young people from the district, giving shoppers the chance to browse and buy unique products while supporting the next generation of local traders.
“The Young Traders Market brings a real buzz to our town centres and is a great way for residents to discover something new while supporting young and local talent. Last year’s Wakefield winners, Chilli Charva, went on to win both the regional and national finals, which was a huge achievement for the district.
“These events are a celebration of creativity, community and our much‑loved markets, and we’re delighted to be welcoming shoppers to enjoy them again.”
Mark Lynam
Wakefield Council’s Corporate Director for Regeneration and Economic Growth
The markets form the first stage of a national competition run in partnership with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF). A panel of judges will select one winner from each event to represent Wakefield at the regional final in Barnsley on Saturday 1 August 2026, with the chance to progress to the national final in Stratford‑upon‑Avon.
For traders, applications for the Castleford and Wakefield events have now closed.
There is still time to apply for the Ossett Young Traders Market, with a deadline of 31 May.
Anyone interested in finding out more or requesting an application pack for Ossett should email letstalkmarkets@wakefield.gov.uk with the subject line YTM EVENT.