Castries Market and Vendor's Arcade, Castries (must see)

The Castries Market and Vendor's Arcade boast the distinction of being the largest open-air market in Castries. With its central location and expansive layout, it serves as a vibrant marketplace teeming with activity and local flavor. Constructed in 1891 by building engineers Bruce & Still Ltd. of Liverpool, the market has a storied past steeped in tradition. Officially opened by Sir Charles Bruce on July 2, 1894, it was originally established to enhance the town's aesthetic appeal while providing a centralized venue for commerce.

With over 300 regular vendors and an additional hundred or more local sellers on market days, the Castries Market offers a diverse array of goods and products. From fresh produce and spices to crafts and dry goods, visitors can explore a treasure trove of offerings reflecting the island's vibrant culture.
While the market's offerings have evolved over time, it remains a vital source for purchasing a wide variety of goods. While fish is no longer sold and meat isn't slaughtered on-site, the market continues to serve as a central hub for acquiring natural produce and goods sourced from local vendors.

In response to increasing congestion on the sidewalks, the Castries City Council introduced the Vendor's Arcade annex in 1996. This annex provides an additional space for vendors to showcase their wares, offering tourists the opportunity to sample local cuisine, purchase frozen meat, or acquire handmade crafts directly from artisans.

Within the Vendor's Arcade, visitors can immerse themselves in the flavors of Saint Lucian cuisine, sampling dishes from local restaurants and vendors. Additionally, the arcade serves as a platform for artisans to showcase their craftsmanship, with a wide selection of locally made crafts available for purchase.