Market in Old Market Square, Roseau, Dominica
Roseau Old Market (Craft Market)
Historic market square in the heart of the capital converted into a craft and souvenir hub. Vendors sell Kalinago baskets, bay oil, spices, paintings, and locally made gifts in colorful wooden stalls.
The Roseau Old Market, commonly known as the Craft Market, occupies a historically significant square in the center of Roseau that once served as a slave market during the colonial era. Today this cobblestone square has been repurposed as a hub for Dominican handicrafts, souvenir goods, and locally produced specialty items, with colorful permanent stalls ringing the perimeter and central open space used for temporary vendors.
The market is the primary destination for visitors seeking authentic Dominican crafts. Kalinago-woven baskets and figurines, made by artisans from the Kalinago Territory in the island's northeastern interior, are among the most distinctive items available. These handwoven pieces are crafted from larouma reeds using techniques passed down through generations and represent genuine indigenous artisanship. Vendors also stock bay rum and bay oil products, which Dominica has historically produced for export, as well as ground spices, vanilla pods, herbal bush teas, and local hot sauces.
The authenticity of goods varies across stalls. A portion of the merchandise — T-shirts, generic Caribbean-print items, and some mass-produced souvenir pieces — is imported and not locally made. Shoppers seeking authentic Dominican craft work should look for the larouma weaving, spice products, and bay oil preparations, asking vendors directly about origin. Prices are generally reasonable and moderate bargaining is acceptable, though many vendors hold to their stated prices politely. Payment is cash only in Eastern Caribbean dollars, though some stalls accept USD at a rough conversion rate.
The market operates six days a week, Monday through Saturday, from 8 AM to 4 PM. It attracts the most activity on Saturday mornings when proximity to the nearby Saturday produce market increases foot traffic. Cruise ship arrivals also drive busier periods, typically mid-morning on days vessels dock at the Roseau cruise berth. On quieter weekday mornings the market has a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for unhurried browsing and direct conversation with individual craftspeople.
Highlights
- Genuine Kalinago larouma-woven baskets and figurines made by artisans from Dominica's indigenous Kalinago Territory
- Bay rum and bay oil products — Dominica's historically significant export — sourced locally
- Ground spices, vanilla pods, and herbal teas representing the island's agricultural bounty
- Historic cobblestone square with colonial-era significance in the heart of central Roseau
Tips
- Ask vendors specifically whether craft items are locally made — some imported goods are mixed in with authentic Dominican products
- Visit on Saturday morning to benefit from increased vendor activity alongside the nearby Bayfront produce market
- Arrive mid-morning on weekdays to browse without cruise-ship crowds; ships typically increase foot traffic for 2-3 hours after docking
- Bring Eastern Caribbean dollars in small denominations; USD is accepted at some stalls but at unfavorable conversion rates
- Larouma baskets are among the best authentic souvenirs available — prices reflect skilled handcraft and are generally firm
FAQ
What makes the Old Market different from a typical souvenir shop?
The Old Market hosts individual Dominican vendors, including some who produce their goods, such as Kalinago craft artisans and local spice growers. This direct-seller model offers authenticity alongside commercial souvenir trade found in nearby shops.
Can visitors find purely locally made goods here?
Yes, though shoppers should ask vendors directly. Kalinago baskets, bay oil preparations, ground spices, and local hot sauces are genuinely Dominican. Some generic Caribbean merchandise and printed items are imported.
Is bargaining acceptable at the Craft Market?
Light bargaining is culturally acceptable on some items, particularly generic souvenirs. Authentic handcrafted goods such as Kalinago baskets are typically priced fairly and vendors may decline significant negotiation.
What are the opening hours and best days to visit?
The market operates Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 4 PM. Saturday mornings are the busiest, benefiting from nearby produce market activity. Quiet weekday mornings offer more relaxed interaction with individual vendors.