The Sydney Fish Markets will hold its 19th annual 36 Hour Seafood Marathon from 5am December 23.

The first of the Christmas catch sold will be sold at 5am Tuesday 23 December, with trade continuing at harbourside markets non-stop until 5pm on Christmas Eve.

Sydney Fish Market has a choice of six seafood retailers as well as new onsite butcher, Vic’s Meat Market.

Sydney Fish Market GM, Bryan Skepper said the 36 Hour Seafood Marathon has become a Christmas tradition for many.

“There’s a wonderful atmosphere, with families sharing late night fish and chips by the water, and seafood lovers dropping in at all hours of the night, filling their eskies to the brim with Christmas favourites,” Skepper said.

Prawns remain the favourite choice among shoppers, with more than 120 tonnes expected to be sold during the  marathon, along with 70,000 dozen oysters – the equivalent of almost 390 Oysters per minute.

“The 36 Hour Seafood Marathon is hands down our busiest trading period. This year we are anticipating over 100,000 visitors and approximately 600 tonnes of fresh seafood to be sold through the wholesale market and retailers during this time.”