Sadly some much-loved stalls have put their tables and marquees away permanently, unable to survive during the economic downturn through the pandemic.

"There were so many stallholders - they were mums and dads and that was their business - it was heartbreaking," operator of The Farm Market, Jessica Smith, said.

"Maybe eight to 10 of our permanents have gone under which is really sad."

But this year has also been a time for new beginnings with new ventures growing, some embarking on their first market stalls this December.

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After months of trying to resurrect the market for the sake of the small businesses who were "going under", this weekend will see the first event back after COVID-19 for the operator, as a pop-up Christmas event at Reddall Reserve by Lake Illawarra.

The only difference will be the beer and wine will "have to sit this one out", as a liquor licence does not exist yet for the venue.

Flight attendant Haileah Oliver of Russell Vale was on maternity leave when COVID-19 swept the world.

The seed of an idea had already been planted for her business Wolf and Cub Co, so not having a job to go back to was the push she needed to get it off the ground - this weekend will be her first stall at The Farm market.

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"I have a little one and just couldn't find anything around ... especially out this way you'd have to go to Baby Bunting," she said of her business for children's wares.

Jacinta Barry of Kiama Downs launched her Frankie and Me Boutique two weeks ago and feels excited yet nervous about her first ever market stall, also at The Farm market.

The mum-of-two initially wanted to design baby swaddles, but her vision grew beyond that and she felt now was the perfect time to give it a shot.

"My mum has a business and has been going to markets for 20 years," she said.

"As a seven-year-old I remember travelling to Canberra markets with her so I know a lot ... but it's just hoping people like our stock and like what we have to offer so i'm a little bit nervous."

The boutique is one of several "taking the plunge" at Sunday's event, selling a selection of keepsakes for mother and baby, educational toys, plus swaddles and plates and other baby needs.

Heading into the new year, Ms Smith hopes to resume market operations at Killalea Reserve depending on how the pandemic plays out.

Other markets in December include: