Sydney Fish Market: Thousands expected at 36-hour seafood marathon

Sydney Fish Market’s 36-hour seafood marathon is in full swing with thousands of people expected to stock up for a festive feast.

Shoppers at Sydney’s Fish Market know there’s nothing fishy about a good feed on Christmas.

Over 100,000 people will reportedly have dropped in to get fresh seafood by the 36-hour seafood marathon.

This year will be the last for the infamous Pyrmont shopping spot before the new $750m fish market opens in 2025.

A classic Aussie Christmas is not complete without prawns – lots of them – with bustling crowds captured getting their lot of tiger, banana and king prawns at 7am on Tuesday.

Many were keen to get their hands on the delicious crustaceans, with one of the better prices coming in at $39.99/kg for extra large cooked tiger prawns.

Oysters came in at $30/dozen.

Over 100,000 shoppers are set to drop in to Sydney Fish Market over the 36-hour seafood marathon. Picture: Justin Lloyd

Western Sydney local Simon Boudaher, 24, arrived at 6am to large crowds already forming to get started on their festive feeds.

“We always come down at Christmas time – it’s as much a tradition as going to any other shops for gifts and presents,” Mr Boudaher said.

An Aussie Christmas is not complete with prawns, with the best of the lot going for $39.99/kg for extra large cooked tiger prawns. Picture: Justin Lloyd

This year will be the last for the popular spot before the new $750m market opens next year. Picture: Justin Lloyd.

“They’re a family staple, and an Aussie Christmas staple. I think it’d be very rare to find someone at the fish markets on Christmas Eve not looking for prawns.

“The variety was great this year. Sometimes people are scrambling to get enough but there was all around a lot on offer which made it a bit easier getting in and out,” he added.

Shoppers were not deterred by the crowds, with the fish market bustling by 7am on Tuesday morning. Picture: Justin Lloyd

“It’s less about the prawns and more about who and what they’re for – for families to come together and share a meal on one of the most important days of the year.

“One thing is for sure – although there’s always leftovers after Christmas, one thing that’s always wiped out is the seafood.”

Western Sydney local Simon Boudaher said going to the Sydney Fish Market was a yearly tradition for his family. Picture: Justin Lloyd

Traffic on Anzac Bridge queuing to get into Sydney Fish Markets today with many not deterred by the wait. Picture: Justin Lloyd

While many are hoping for better parking and easier lines at the market come next year, they certainly weren’t deterred when it came to snatching up some of the most abundant market produce one final time in 2024.

Some like Bradford Edward Busoy couldn’t hold out till Christmas Day, getting in on the delicious feast early in the food court area.

“We enjoyed some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever had — oysters, prawns, and a delicious seafood platter,” he said.

“(It) is a must-visit for anyone in the area, whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fun, immersive experience.”

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Originally published as Sydney Fish Market: Thousands expected at 36-hour seafood marathon