There were smiles on the faces of people packed into the Thieves Alley Market at the weekend, but perhaps the same was not true of their dogs.

Crowds numbering in the thousands packed into the lower Octagon and adjoining streets on Saturday to sample treats and crafts.

Dunedin man Junior Tiatoa gave daughter Mariah-Carey (3) a great view as he propped her up on his shoulders.

"There are heaps of smiles. I’m very impressed at the turnout," he said.

Mr Tiatoa then sped off to find his grandmother, who was selling authentic Cook Island food.

Dunedin City Council community events co-ordinator Marilyn Anderson said the day went ‘‘really, really well’’.

The only "disappointing" aspect was too many people ignoring city bylaws and bringing dogs, she said.

"The ground was quite hot and there’s nowhere for them to go and have a drink."

More than 250 stalls were scattered around the event, which was about the same number as last year.

"There were a constant stream of people coming through."

Crowds arrived at 8.30am, even though the market did not officially open until 10am, she said.

There was great co-ordination with cruise ship companies to ensure buses for Regatta and Silver Whisper passengers could use a different stop so people could still enjoy the market’s treats.

New weird and wonderful stalls popped up every year, Ms Anderson said.

"On Moray Pl there was a metal workshop selling solar-powered lights that look like flowers."

The market had grown in its 34 years, she said.

"We’ve got a few more years ahead of us yet."

jono.edwards@odt.co.nz