Market in the Darsena

An experimental project that enhances local craftsmanship, supports micro-entrepreneurship, and fosters encounters, creativity, and a sustainable economy.

The Market in the Darsena is an experimental and collaborative project set in the splendid Darsena of Parco Ciani to support micro-entrepreneurship and professional activation, give visibility to local creative production, and create a meeting place.

The event offers rotating micro-entrepreneurs an exhibition space where they can present and sell unique products conceived or made by them in Ticino. Product categories include clothing, accessories, home-decor objects, body-care products, candles and perfumes, all characterised by high aesthetic quality and limited-series production.

The exhibition area is designed to provide a harmonious aesthetic and sensory experience, with curated set-ups and an environment that fosters encounters between producers and visitors. A refreshment corner, featuring local products and outdoor tables overlooking the lake, makes the Market in the Darsena a place for gathering and discovery, open to both residents and tourists—an ideal destination even on rainy weekends.

This initiative aims to support local creativity, encourage professional activation and stimulate a sustainable economy, while at the same time enhancing the territory and its creative and productive excellence.

Next edition

From Saturday, 6 September to Sunday, 26 October 2025, weekends only.

Location: Darsena, Parco Ciani
Hours: 10:00 AM–6:30 PM

September:

Saturday, 6 and Sunday, 7 September
Saturday, 13 and Sunday, 14 September
Saturday, 20 and Sunday, 21 September

October:

Saturday, 4 and Sunday, 5 October
Saturday, 11 and Sunday, 12 October
Saturday, 18 and Sunday, 19 October
Saturday, 25 and Sunday, 26 October

Market for micro-entrepreneurs, with 38 rotating exhibitors.

The deadline to apply as exhibitors has passed.

Contacts

City of Lugano
Divisione socialità
Divisione eventi e congressi

For more information:
[email protected]

Market in the Darsena is an experimental project born from the collaboration between Divisione socialità (Division of Social Affairs) and Divisione eventi e congressi (Events and Congresses Division).

With Market in the Darsena, the City concretizes its commitment to promoting initiatives and projects supporting employment, enhances the development of creative micro-enterprises, promotes a decentralized offering of events involving local realities and social life.