NEWCASTLE favourite Olive Tree Market is returning to Civic Park this weekend just in time for Christmas.
Co-founder of the market Justine Gaudry said it's "wonderful" to be back but the absence of events like Olive Tree has impacted community "togetherness".
"Human interaction and connection has been really hard for everybody," she said
"Olive Tree has been really central for people coming together every month so not having events like this has put a big hole in people's ability to be together."
Ms Gaudry told the Newcastle Herald the market only ran from February to June this year which meant a lot of vendors struggled.
"It's been a very very difficult year and some businesses didn't make it through."
Many owners were able to adapt their business during this period which according to Ms Gaudry increased pressure on creators.
"Food stallholders started delivering food packs and ceramicists did a lot of do-it-yourself at home kits," she said.
"But this means they have to be makers, marketers, writers and online business people which is a big adaptation for many."
As well as artisan and food stalls, this weekend's Olive Tree will feature musicians Bodie, Adam Miller and Maeve Duo. The markets will run from 9am to 2pm on Saturday and will host about 135 stalls compared to 80 seen at the February markets Ms Gaudry said.
"Getting back up to the number of pre-COVID stallholders has been hard due to some not making it through, some unvaccinated, stock issues and worries around travel."
In line with government regulations only the fully vaccinated are able to attend the market without an exemption and will have to check-in through either the King Street or Darby Street entrance upon arrival.
Ms Gaudry said while they are not required for outdoor venues, Olive Tree is encouraging individuals to wear masks and follow the 1.5 metre social distancing guidelines where possible.
"Markets can be bustling areas but we all still need to be respectful of each other and mindful of the rules."
After this Saturday, markets will be held on December 4 and December 18 in the lead up to Christmas.
"Our December fourth Christmas festival markets will have a range of musicians and bands with new installations and about one hundred and sixty stallholders."
