Second-hand tools and clothes to arthritis cream, candle oils, handicrafts, local produce, art, pottery, plants and cakes. Held the first, third and fifth Sunday of the month. More on the market on Facebook.

January 5-29: Nelson Bay foreshore, Victoria Parade (next to d'Albora Marina). Time: 4pm-8pm.

The Homegrown Markets will be staged along the Nelson Bay foreshore each Wednesday and Saturday in January. The markets specialise in handmade, eco and local designs. More on this market here.

January 7: Robinson Reserve, Anna Bay. Time: 4pm-8pm.

The popular Fingal Twilight Markets are expanding to Robinson Reserve. More than 80 stalls featuring locally handmade items, live music, nearby playground and skate park for kids, food vendors. More on this market here.

January 8 and 22: Fingal Bay foreshore (next to surf club). Time: 3pm-8pm.

These locally owned and operated markets offers a great selection of artisan and handmade products, hot food, coffee, drinks and sweet treats, live music. More on this market here.

January 7, 14, 21: Apex Park, Nelson Bay. Time: 1pm-3pm. Cost: Free

Grab your picnic rug, call your friends and start the weekend off right by catching these talented performers play some epic tunes down at Apex Park on a Friday.

January 7: Bagnall's Beach Reserve (opposite Irambang Street). Time: 9am-11am. Cost: Free but bookings required.

As part of the Port Stephens Summer Coastal Activities program, discover hidden inhabitants that you never knew were among the Port's seagrasses such as baby squid, fish, prawns and crabs. A guided walk. Suitable for ages 5 plus. To book phone the Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre on 1800 808 900. Also being held January 10 between 11.30am-1.30pm.