Updated June 17, 2017 11:27:56

The routine is well-practiced and known: pack a blanket, bring some drinks, and be prepared to capture the magic of Darwin's sunsets.

Mindil Market is one of the biggest, and for many people selling or passing through, it's the best in the Top End.

Over the past 30 years, Mindil Market has been talked about before it is seen, in places far removed from Australia's tropical capital.

"We're just enjoying the beautiful weather because it's been raining for a week and half at home," said Kath Tindal from New South Wales.

"We're loving the atmosphere at the markets, and, of course, we're hoping for a great sunset.

"The markets of a very high standard and that's what we were expecting them to be, based on what was said by some of our friends who have been here before."

Photo: Pointing and shooting at the iconic Mindil Beach sunset. (ABC News: Dijana Damjanovic)

Once the natural spectacle is over, the night market comes alive.

"I'm back again after three years because I love them [the markets], they go from the afternoon until the evening," said Sarah Speaks from the United Kingdom.

"Everything becomes vibrant and alive once the sun's gone down and there are all the lights and it's really active."

Photo: Mindil Markets are also home to fire performers who use the shoreline as their stage. (ABC News: Dijana Damjanovic)

Among the stallholders, delivering some of that Top End character to visitors is essential.

"It's all about the feel of Darwin, and I always say, 'wear the pearls as you walk away and you'll look like a local, you'll blend in to the atmosphere here,' it just goes with the Top End," said Phillippa Doyle.

Photo: Phillippa Doyle says Mindil Markets' dry season trading is her 'saving grace'. (ABC News: Dijana Damjanovic)

Engaging with those not too familiar with the terrain is an important part of the sales pitch.

"What I love about the market are the people, over the last seven years I've met so many amazing people from all walks of life," said Aaron Rodwell from Croc Stock and Barra.

"That's what I love, the continuous flow of new and interesting people wanting to get their slice of Darwin."

Photo: Some stalls sell traditional Top End souvenirs for visitors. (ABC News: Dijana Damjanovic)

As much as the markets cater to the people from further away, some stallholders want to see a few more locals show their faces.

"We really miss the locals down here, I think because during the school holidays it can get busy but it's still Mindil, so come down," said stallholder Fairy Jill.

This is part three in a weekly series on the Top End's markets. See more on the Malak markets, and the Palmerston and Coolalinga markets.

Topics: tourism, markets, darwin-0800

First posted June 17, 2017 09:17:55