Whether your tot shows an early appreciation for vintage or is simply happy to munch on the abundant Kettle Corn offerings, there’s more at the Bay Area’s bevy of antique flea markets for this little set than you might expect. From starting collections to creating cool bedrooms and unearthing old toys, we have some easy ideas for exposing children to the fun, colorful and creative world of reuse at your local flea. Your kids are up at the crack of dawn anyway, right? So let’s get shopping.
Photo by Chantal Lamers
Kiddos First Collection
First, let your kiddo know what’s in it for them. Many vendors sell inexpensive items that are perfect for the makings of a new collection. Not only does it make the flea market like a treasure hunt for them, too, it also helps retain their interest. Some items we love to collect include patches, plastic toy horses and souvenir pennants. Bonus: Depending on the age of your child, you can give them a budget and let them do the bargaining.
Photo by Chantal Lamers
Ready for a Kids’ Room Refresh?
If you look closely, the flea can provide never ending inspiration for decorating and accessorizing your kiddo’s respective rooms. Antique and vintage dressers can double as storage and as a changing table. And because these older pieces are often pretty sturdy they’ve proven that they can stand up to a toddler’s tough love. Also keep an eye out for pendants and chandeliers, kid-sized play tables and chairs, rocking horses as well as toddler and twin sized bed frames. Remember, just about anything can be painted.
Now onto the art and accessories. A lot of vendors sell wood plaid Pendleton style blankets that aren’t only great for layering on top of beds but super for picnics and ballgames, too. Along the way you might also spot wrought-iron animal piggy banks, those aforementioned souvenir pennants and all kinds of paintings that can be accumulated for mini gallery style walls. Old metal and woven baskets are also aplenty here and make for great toy storage. Get input from you child and, before making a purchase, check pieces to make sure they are safe.
Photo by Chantal Lamers
Dress Em in Vintage
Depending on the flea you’re attending, there may be dozens of clothing vendors, too. Vintage children’s clothing is gaining popularity and this is usually a great place to snag vintage OshKosh B’gosh overalls and pinafores. Check measurements, not sizes, for a more accurate fit.
Photo by Chantal Lamers
Toys, Toys, Toys!
Now, onto the toys. A very plentiful item at the flea market is old enamelware (bowls, cups, buckets, pots) and the likes of small metal jello molds. The more worn and chipped versions are usually pretty cheap and are great for outdoor play kitchens and sandboxes. There are also vintage aprons and wood kitchen toys up for grabs like rolling pins and potato smashers that any potential top chef will totally cherish. Another little draw for kids is all of the old office supplies. Rulers, staplers, mini chalkboards and tape dispensers are easy finds that kids will love to add to their school or art stash.
Photo by Chantal Lamers
If you have a baby doll fanatic at home, you can easily score inexpensive doll cradles, highchairs and clothing, too. If you have a kiddo who digs diggers, there are all kinds of metal toys trucks in all sizes that are great for indoor and outdoor play. (Some prime condition trucks can be super pricey but there are always bargains to be found.) Also in abundance are Fisher Price toys, from the classic A-Frame to the festive preschool and cottage dollhouse, you parents might even more inclined to purchase these plastic pieces of nostalgia.
Photo by Chantal Lamers
Flea Market Survival Guide
Again, depending on the age of your children consider bringing a baby carrier, stroller and or wagon. Dress in layers and wear SPF and bring a large canvas bag for stashing purchases. Depending on the venue, the only bathroom offerings could be outhouses so be prepared with extra hand wipes. Finally, remind children too ask for help if they want to check out an item and encourage them to ask vendors questions. And whatever you do, don’t forget the snacks!
The Best Bay Area Flea Markets
The Alameda Point Antiques Fair is the largest of its kind in NoCal. Join hundreds of other treasure seekers to the island to browse over 800 antique dealer booths. Children under 15 are admitted free. There are food vendors here, too, so you won’t leave hungry.
When: 1st Sunday of Every Month, 6 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Alameda Point, Alameda Point
2900 Navy Way
Alameda, Ca
Cost: $15/adult if you arrive before 7:30 a.m.$10/adult between 7:30 and 9 a.m.; $5/adult after 9 p.m.
The Treasure Island Flea host local Bay Area artists, makers, collectors, vintage designers, and indie and Etsy creators. Specialty food vendors and a revolving selection of SF food trucks sell gourmet food including Mini Donut Sundaes! Enjoy your treats on the Great Lawn with an amazing view of San Francisco and plenty of kid-friendly activities.
When: Last weekend of each month, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Treasure Island, Avenue of the Palms
San Francisco, Ca
Cost: $3/Person. 12 & under, free.
The Alemany Flea is small in comparison but there are always good deals. This rummage style market is best for pickers who have some patience. You can stroll through pretty quickly and it’s free to enter.
When: Every Sunday, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: 100 Alemany Blvd.
San Francisco, Ca
Cost: Free
— Chantal Lamers
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