Source: National Geographic
As a result of this gluttony, I have been to my fair share of flea markets and thrift stores, both in the U.S. and abroad. Based on this research and extensive reflection (not really), I can unequivocally say that the Alameda Point Antiques Fair is hands down the best U.S. flea market I've been to. It's *huge* (800+ vendors) but easy to navigate, the sellers are friendly, and there are tons of food trucks to give you that second wind after you've hauled your first load to booty back to the car.
What You Need to Know
- The Fair takes place on the first Sunday of each month, so get it in your calendar! Rain updates are posted to the site.
- It starts EARLY! Hours are 6am - 3pm. Pricing is tiered by arrival time, anywhere from $15 for early birds to $5 for arrivals after 9am. What this means for you: there is tons of stuff to browse all day, but some vendors start closing as early as 12pm. The pros go early, and there are limited discounts thrown in at the end. Around 1-2pm, I saw a few stalls doing a further 50% cut, but these were in the vast minority.
- There is unfortunately no particular structure to the layout. The area (a former aircraft landing strip) is divided into rows from A-Z, but vendors are not bundled into categories. You have to pound the pavement if your goal is to see the bulk. Wear good shoes!
- I was informed that most vendors come back every month, and most one-timers are located in the last rows. Since they're not returning, you could potentially negotiate better deals on their merchandise.
- A few vendors had credit card machines, but the vast majority of transactions were in cash -- be prepared! There were ATMs at the entrance, but also long waiting lines.
- You must have a car to get to the fair, and parking (free) moves further afield as the day goes on. My friends and I arrived around 10am and walked ~15 minutes to get to the entrance. A small section of parking right by the entrance is reserved for short-term loading, so don't stress about hauling furniture.
- Shopping carts and flat carts are available (free) for large furniture transport.
- Unless they have signage explicitly saying "Final price," it's totally OK to negotiate a little. Even if you're not comfortable haggling, it's good to at least ask. The $2 you save will make you feel like a champ!
- What to take: a backpack and extra totes, water, and a hat if it's sunny. Hand sanitizer if you're anxious, like me.
Enough guidelines; let's get to the pretty stuff! :o)
Painted Dressers!
Quirky Objets!
Mid-Century Dazzle!
Demure Decor!
Color Pop!
June 1st is the next fair, friends! Hope you are heading that-a-way.