Footfall counters in the town centre showed that more than 325,000 people came into the town centre for the four-day market, which took place from August 15 to 18, compared to 260,000 visitors the week before.
The event organised by Darlington Council saw more than 300 market stalls fill the town centre, with a programme of entertainment, a vintage car display, music events and a tea dance taking place over the four days.
Council Leader John Williams said: “The Summer Market Spectacular was a massive success, the town was packed with people having a great time. It was a fantastic weekend.
“This success is even more pleasing because the first day of the market was the same day as the fire at the King’s Head Hotel, which caused some disruption in the town.
“We will be turning our attention now to the other market events we have planned this year, and making them as successful as the Summer Market Spectacular.”
There will be a French Market on October 16, 17 and 18; Christingle markets will be held on November 27 and December 4 as part of the Christmas late night shopping in Darlington.
A Winter Wonderland Christmas market will see hundreds of stalls filling the town centre between December 11 and 15.
Darlington also has twice monthly Craft Markets on the second and fourth Fridays, a Farmers’ Market on the third Friday of each month and a general market every Monday and Saturday with the Covered Market open every week Monday to Saturday.