ML Interest Tag: flea-market

LA’s Best Flea & Indie Markets for Treasure Hunters

by Andie Huber

If you’re looking for a low-key, reliable way to entertain the kids (and yourself) on the weekend, how about a little treasure hunting at these local indie and flea markets? The weekly or monthly events offer plenty of vintage and handmade finds for you to discover. Double-check the website to confirm any changes or updates to mask and social distancing protocol as well as confirm the event is still happening. Read on for all the details. Happy treasure hunting!

The Rose Bowl Flea Market

The mothership of all flea markets, this must-go market takes place every 2nd Sun. For over 50 years this market has been delivering one-of-a-kind, vintage pieces to Angelenos and there is no slowing down (thankfully!). No matter what you are into, there's something for everyone whether it's plants, furniture, records, tchotchkes, collectibles, arts and crafts, clothes or food.

Hours: 9 a.m. for general public; 5 a.m.-9 a.m. for VIP 
Rate: VIP is $20; regular admission is $10 per person (must be exact cash only, no change); kids under 12 are free

1001 Rose Bowl Dr.
Pasadena
Online: rgcshows.com/rose-bowl

Melrose Trading Post

"Sunday Fundays" are back but this time with wider aisles and vendors being more spread out across campus to observe social-distancing so you and your little ones can hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures. There are hand sanitizing stations available but no water fountains so plan to bring your own water or expect to purchase water on site. Parking is available on campus as well but is limited.

When: Every Sun., 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Cost: $5 cash at entrance, $5 + fees for contactless tickets
Where: 7850 Melrose Ave.
Fairfax
Online: melrosetradingpost.org

Los Feliz Flea

Organized by The Odd Market (the same group that hosts Odd Nights at the Autry), the Los Feliz Flea is a curated market with over 100 vendors selling antiques, collectibles, and more. Boasting plenty of shady areas and socially-distanced tables for kids to sit and eat at, this free-to-park and free-to-enter is by far the best value for treasure hunting.

When: Every Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: John Marhsall High School

3939 Tracy St.
Los Feliz
Online: theoddmarket.com/losfelizflea

Silver Lake Flea

While it may not have the same kid-friendly games and entertainment as Melrose and Los Feliz, this neighborhood market is chock-full of colorful and unique finds (both vintage and handmade), along with friendly vendors, including some pint-sized entrepreneurs. The vibe is cool and hipster-y, but in a fun-filled, welcoming way. Added bonus: It's free. 

When: Every Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 1911 Sunset Blvd. (in the lot of Taix in Echo Park)
Echo Park
Online: silverlakeshop.com

Odd Nights at The Autry

This popular artisan market and evening festival may be on hiatus during the winter months, but it's back as of Apr. and will continue through Sept. 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Bring a blanket and spread out on the sprawling Autry Museum lawn where there are inflatables in one direction and craft and toy vendors in the other. But that's not all: there's also live music and all the food trucks.

When: Every 3rd Fri. of the month
Where: Autry Museum of the American West

4700 Western Heritage Wy
Griffith Park
Online: theoddmarket.com/autry

Santa Monica Airport Flea Market

This westside affair located on the grounds of the Santa Monica Airport ($5 to enter, kid and on-site parking are free) will entertain young and old with a variety of vintage and one-of-a-kind finds. Are the kids getting bored? Wander over to the runway observation deck where you can watch small planes take off and land regularly—a must for aviation fans.

When: 1st & 4th Sun. 7:00 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Santa Monica Airport Interim Open Space
Santa Monica
Online: santamonicaairportantiquemarket.com

 

 

Topanga Vintage Market

Bring the family ($4 per person to enter, kids under 12 are free) to Pierce College in Woodland Hills to discover what is touted as "one of LA's top sources for vintage." When in session, expect 200 vendors, great food trucks, and live music at the Topanga Vintage Market. Be sure to keep an eye out for local artisans providing free demos for kids to enjoy. 

When: Every 4th Sun. of the month
Where: Pierce College

Victory Blvd. & Mason Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: topangavintagemarket.com

Smorgasburg LA

While technically not a flea market, Smorgasburg LA is a free-to-enter, open-air event featuring top food vendors serving up Korean dumplings, Peruvian tacos, "Salt n Peppa Lobsta" and more. Plus, once a month the market also hosts Hecho in LA, with a live DJ and the family-friendly I Love Micheladas beer garden. 

When: Every Sun., 10a.m.-4p.m.
Where: ROW DTLA

777 Alameda St. 
Downtown
Online: la.smorgasburg.com

—Andie Huber

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LA’s Best Farmers Markets for Kids
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Shopping the Vintage Flea Markets: A 101 for Families

by Chantal Lamers

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.

Alameda Flea by Chantal Lamers

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

What’s on your shopping list? Share your wishlist with us in the comments below!

 

 

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Bay Area Pickers: Flea Market Fun for the Whole Family

by Gabby Cullen

Booths piled high with what some might call old junk as far as the eye can see. Music, food trucks and other small business owners selling their delicious wares. Pony rides, hula hooping, one-of-a-kind trinkets, hats, toys, and many other awesome items. Where are you and why? Quite simply, you’ve most likely made your way to one of the Bay Area’s fantastic flea markets for a day of hunting, picking and searching for what may be the “newest” cool item in your house, an old toy which brings joy to a new generation of kid, great food, and old-fashioned family fun. There are several spots around San Francisco which open their gates, sometimes once a weekend, sometimes once a month, to all those willing to have a little patience in hopes of finding treasures with not only super cool stories, but a one-of-a-kind look to make your house a home. Follow your noses to the tasty food booths or trucks and enjoy noshing on homemade sweet potato pies, kettle korn, and other yummy goodies. Spend a Sunday or two digging through the junk and wandering through the rows, the whole family will be sure come back happy.

San Francisco

Treasure Island Flea Market
Hands down the most kiddo friendly flea markets in the Bay. Search the treasure troves, (pun intended!) do a jig to any of the live music from local indie bands, or try your hand at hula hooping with Choi. More cool stuff for kids? Try the scavenger hunt, which gives customers a chance to win a $20 gift card good for any vendor, or the maker classes, which are usually art workshops for everyone to check out. The show organizers have hosted the Marine Mammal Center, held BMX bike shows and once even spotlighted a Hot Wheels race on over 300 feet of vintage tracks! After chowing down on gourmet goodies from any of the best SF food trucks, head for Harvey’s Gourmet Mini Donuts, the kids will go nuts for these round bites of dough, which are delivered hot and fresh via a conveyor belt and served by a smiling man donning a top hat.  Throw in some dog adoption agencies that encourage lots of petting, the incredible view and you’ve got an amazing day guaranteed to create memories for the whole family.

 
Make an entrance: Don’t feel like driving? Hop on a water taxi and arrive in style. Call 415-339-0196 to reserve a spot.
 
Treasure Island Flea Market
1 Avenue of the Palms
Treasure Island, San Francisco, Ca
Dates: Last Saturday & Sunday of the month
Hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Cost: Adults: $3, Kids 12 and under: Free
Online: treasureislandflea.com

East Bay
 
Alameda Point Antiques Faire
The largest antiques faire in Northern California is bound to have some family fun at the ready. Held on the first Sunday of every month will often attract up to 10,000 peeps combing the booths of over 800 vendors. This is most definitely a place parents will want to take turns with the kiddos, as there are rows and rows of fabulous stuff worth checking out. Youngsters will dig the vintage kiddie books and funky old toys like the once spotted and in perfect condition replicas of characters from the Jim Henson cult classic, The Dark Crystal.  There are metal robots, pull toys, dollhouses, old trains and much more. Mom will die for the vintage clothes and designer shoes being sold for a song, Dad will get a kick out of old records and posters. Everyone will want to suck down some fresh lemonade and who can resist freshly made kettle corn, cupcakes and pizza?

Alameda Point Antiques Faire
2900 Navy Way
Alameda, Ca
Dates: First Sunday of the month
Hours: 6:00 am – 3:00 pm
Cost: Adults: $15 – Free depending on arrival time, Kids 15 and Under: Free
Online: alamedapointantiquesfaire.com

West End Flea Market
This flea market flies under the radar, making the hunt for treasure even more exciting. Happening every Saturday in Alameda, live music and free admission makes it a great outing. The toy and baby gear options are incredible! Steve the Toy Dealer is a constant presence, and always gets a smile from kids coming through the market; he sells specialty toys many of which start at just $1! Make your way to the brand new Performers Stage,  where musical entertainment will have bodies in motion with talents such as the Jamming Nachos, a band of brothers and sisters ranging from 8 – 16. Another recent crowd pleaser was a local Tahitian groups with kiddos as young as 4 performing for the crowds.  From jumperoos to vintage lunch boxes, glammed up hair accessories and yummy snacks like Bombzies BBQ, Peter’s Kettle Corn and Mustache Mike’s Italian Ices, this is definitely a fun spot for the whole family.


FYI: Every Saturday features something different, cool picks include 1st Saturday Baby & Children’s Sale, 2nd Saturdays for vintage and antique wares, 4th Saturday for toys and comics.

West End Flea Market
555 Ralph Appezatto Memorial Parkway
Parking Lot C
Alameda, Ca
Dates: Every Saturday
Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: Free
Online: westendfleamarket.com

South Bay

San Jose Flea Market
A family tradition since 1960, this 120 acre event is truly a family affair. There are over 30 snack bars and carts selling delicious foods like the made from scratch, hand dipped corn dogs, mouth watering BBQ, yummy nachos, corn on the cob and all styles of sweet treats. There is a brand new FunZone featuring cool kiddie rides with a Ferris wheel, bounce houses, and the ever classic antique merry-go-round. Three different playgrounds throughout the market are waiting for kiddos to enjoy and there are two arcades for the older ones in the family. There is a section for the farmer’s market selling seasonal organic produce, there are pony rides, and even authentic mariachis singing for all to enjoy. Early Bird Special: Get to the market before 8:00 am on Sat & Sun and park for free.

San Jose Flea Market
1590 Berryessa Road
San Jose, Ca
Dates: Every Wed, Fri, Sat & Sun
Hours: Dawn -Dusk
Cost: Free, Parking: Wed, Fri: $3.00, Sat & Sun: $7.00
Phone: 408-453-1110
Online: sjfm.com

Marin
 
Marin Outdoor Antique Market
This market, held on the second Sunday of the month, May – Oct may is a total win-win for the whole family. Located right next to the legendary Marin County Farmer’s Market, which offers a petting zoo, pony rides, bouncy houses and those delicious Belgian waffles, it’s a perfect chance for mom to look for the perfect shabby chic addition to the home while Dad and the kiddos enjoy the fruits of the farmer’s labor. Not to mention the Civic Center’s Lagoon Park, with ducks waiting to be fed, picnic tables for lunch, lawn bowling and the playground complete with playhouse, swings, climbing structures and musical instruments.

Marin Outdoor Antique Market
Civic Center Drive
San Rafael, Ca
Dates: Second Sunday of every month, May – Oct
Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00
Cost: Free parking and admission
Online: goldengateshows.com/marinoutdoor.htm

Honorable Mentions
These markets and fairs do not top the list for family favorites in the Bay Area, but they are still super cool spots to find awesome vintage/antique wares and are totally worthy of a mention.

Pleasanton Antique Fair – pleasantonantiquefair.com

Berkeley Flea Market – berkeleyfleamarket.com

Bay Area Antique Fair – bayareaantiquefair.com

Which flea market to you enjoy the most with family? We want to know!

–Gabrielle Cullen

Picture #1: Kid at Alameda Point Faire by Allen Michaan
Picture #2: Family at Flea Market Courtesy of Treasure Island Flea Market
Picture #3: Vintage Toys by Allen Machine
Picture #4: Star Wars Toys Courtesy of West End Flea Market
Picture #5: Hand Dipped Corn Dogs Courtesy of San Jose Flea Market via Facebook
Picture #6: Boy at Maker Class Courtesy of Treasure Island Flea Market 

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