Arpora Saturday Night Market
Arpora Saturday Night Market is Goa's most famous weekly night market — a vibrant open-air flea market that combines shopping, street food, live music and nightlife. Located in Arpora near Baga, it attracts locals and tourists with colourful stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, souvenirs and international cuisine. Expect a lively, carnival-like atmosphere with DJs, bands, street performers and a chance to sample authentic Goan food.
Location
Arpora Saturday Night Market (Xalana Market), near Baga, Arpora, North Goa, India
Duration
Weekly on Saturdays, typically from around 18:00 (6:00 PM) until 23:30–00:30 (hours vary by season). Plan for a 2–4 hour visit.
Best Time to Visit
November to March (peak dry tourist season). The market operates year-round but is most enjoyable on clear, dry evenings. Arrive early (6:00–8:30 PM) to avoid the busiest crowds and to get the best picks.
Pricing
Free entry. Purchases, food and drinks are paid individually. Typical budget: INR 500–2,000 per person (approx. USD 6–25) depending on how much you shop and drink. Card acceptance is limited at small stalls — carry cash (INR) and small notes.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Hundreds of stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, footwear and souvenirs
Wide variety of street food and international cuisine stalls (Goan, Indian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, etc.)
Live music, DJs and occasional stage performances creating a party atmosphere
Bargain-hunting opportunities — unique handmade goods and vintage finds
Family-friendly sections plus late-night party areas with bars and cocktails
Street performers, henna artists and tattoo stalls
Itinerary
Arrival & orientation
Enter via the main gate, pick a route (food first or shopping first). Grab a stall map if available and keep cash handy.
Shopping spree
Browse handicraft, clothing and jewellery stalls. Haggle politely — start around 30–50% lower than the asking price and meet in the middle.
Dinner & live music
Sample Goan dishes and international street food. Move to the live music area for drinks and entertainment. Check portion sizes and hygiene at food stalls.
Final rounds & depart
Revisit favourite stalls, finalize purchases, use official taxi/rideshare points to get back — parking near the market fills up early.
Safety Requirements
Keep valuables (phones, wallets, passports) in a secure, zipped bag or money belt; pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Use licensed taxis or app-based ride services after the market; agree price or use the meter where appropriate.
Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach — choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol; know your limits and keep an eye on companions.
Observe local laws and respect cultural norms; public drunkenness can attract policing or fines.
Tips
Carry cash (small notes) — many stalls are cash-only. ATMs nearby may run out on busy nights.
Arrive early (6:00–8:30 PM) for easier parking, shorter queues and first pick of merchandise.
Bargain politely — sellers expect negotiation. If you don’t like a price, walk away and many vendors will call you back with a lower offer.
Wear comfortable shoes — the market area is large and can have uneven ground.
Try local Goan specialties (prawn curry, pork vindaloo, bebinca) and fresh fruit juices; avoid food from stalls that look unhygienic.
Bring a reusable bag for purchases and a small torch or phone torch if you plan to explore late.
Plan transport in advance — parking is limited. Use taxis, scooters, or hotel shuttles where possible.
Keep a photocopy/photo of your ID and emergency contact numbers handy.
