The origins of The Aluth Pola are simple. It was born out of necessity in 2020. They needed to fundraise for their animal welfare organisation, Justice for Animals. They wanted to sell donated second-hand books but they couldn’t find an affordable venue to do so. So they created their own market, a market for a cause: The Aluth Pola.
What sets us apart from other markets is that it is a non-profit market whereby any profits made from organising the market is used to finance animal welfare programs such as spay neuter, rescues and vaccinations. They also provide an affordable platform for home businesses, start-ups and other charities to showcase their brand and their causes.
Furthermore, they offer stall discounts and help finance tables for other charities. They’ve had the RCCI (Rehabilitation Centre for the Communication Impaired), Emerge, Child Action Lanka and Simply Women partake in their previous markets.
At their upcoming Halloween market on Sunday the 30th of October, from 10am to 9:30pm they have food, live music and beverages as well as over 30 stalls selling all sorts of locally made, locally sourced goods. It’s time we start to shop local and think sustainable. Sri Lanka has a lot of great small businesses and they’re hoping to be the market that helps them find their footing and grow.
The outdoor market is located at Body Bar, No. 3 Jawatte Avenue and there is ample roadside parking for visitors.
Follow them on Instagram @aluthpola and Facebook @thealuthpola.
