Orange Pip market celebrates its tenth birthday this year with another summer of food, creativity and music. The popular monthly market has become a fixture in the town centre over the past decade.

Primarily based on Baker and Bedford Streets, the markets see local businesses, musicians and creatives come together to celebrate Middlesbrough’s fantastic cultural offer.

A child on the shoulders of an adult in a crowded orange pip market with bunting overhead

The announcement of this year’s summer programme comes as it’s confirmed that Middlesbrough has made the longlist for the UK City of Culture 2029.

The town will host the UK’s biggest art award ceremony, the Turner Prize this year and is ready to welcome an array of cultural events such as the Mela, the Taste of Africa festival, Middlesbrough Art Week and a new Middlesbrough Storytelling Festival.

Cllr Philippa Storey, Middlesbrough’s Deputy Mayor and Executive Member for Culture, said:

“Orange Pip market is an anchor of Middlesbrough’s cultural and entertainment programme and is loved by people of all ages and backgrounds.

“It’s incredible to think it was launched 10 years ago – its continued success is testament to the hard work of the team behind the market and our wonderful local businesses and creatives. It brings Middlesbrough’s community together and showcases the region’s exceptional talent.

“The ‘Pip will be central to another big year for culture in Middlesbrough and I can’t wait for the first one of the season.”

This year’s special tenth anniversary programme will include a full stage of music and dance, including North East indie band Vice Killer.

All the family can take part in arts and craft workshops such as cyanotype printing, brooch making and an immersive Aerial Blossom Tasters experience where visitors can enjoy memorable visuals, bubbles and music.

Two people chatting at a busy trade stall at a bustling Orange Pip market on Bedford Street

This year, the Orange Pip markets will be held from 12 noon to 6pm on the following dates:

  • Saturday, May 30
  • Saturday, June 27
  • Saturday, July 25
  • Saturday, August 29
  • Saturday, September 26

Each ‘Pip will be held on Baker and Bedford Streets except the market in June, which will be held on Centre Square.

We invite local musicians, experienced workshop facilitators and artists to perform or deliver hands-on sessions as part of our creative programme.

Those interested in Orange Pip opportunities are invited to complete an expression of interest form.

Further information

You can find out more about or Orange Pip Markets here.