Cloverdale Flea Market

The following guest post was contributed by Naomi and Ryan of to be, inspired.

I’ve been going to the Cloverdale Flea Market for the past 10 years. It’s located right next to the Cloverdale Horse Track and costs a dollar to get in – totally worth it. If you like to people watch, this is the place for you.

Photo credit: Naomi & Ryan on Flickr

There’s a fantastic mix of all sorts of sellers trying to unload their wares – I’ve seen everything from old motorcycles to antique sewing machines, although the selection has shrunk a bit since I started going. In the Spring and early Summer months you’ll find a ton of bedding plants, hanging basket plants and any type of bushes and tree roses for almost half off regular retail prices. You’ll also find that the flea market is split into two sections. The outdoor section consists of anybody and everybody that buys a table and brings whatever they can haul in their cars. I’ve been lucky in the past – you just need to have a sharp eye. Some of the things I’ve managed to snag are:

The second half of the flea market is inside two buildings. Here you’ll find more of the “regular” sellers who sell a carefully edited selection of trinkets like glassware, watches, cellphone things (yawn) and other more fragile products.

Don’t forget to bring cash! If you do, there is a bank machine next to the concession stand. Don’t forget to haggle – that’s the best part, and as the flea market season progresses, I’m trying to hone my skills. The only piece of advice I have is to respect the seller’s item and don’t low ball an offensive price. If the seller really wants to sell you the item, you can make an offer and if he doesn’t accept it, just walk away slowly. I’ve had sellers run after me and say FINE FINE I’ll accept your offer.

Flea markets can be hit or miss. You can spend hours scouring the tables, rummaging through bins of trinkets and still come up empty handed. The Cloverdale Flea Market is no exception, however this summer I seem to be having a lot of luck finding fun and unique items. There’s nothing more satisfying than coming across that gem.

Cloverdale Flea Market
Cloverdale Fairgrounds
60 Avenue & 176 Street
Every Sunday (except special events and holidays)

Naomi and Ryan share a passion for all things old and the inspirations you can draw from them. Through their blog, to be, inspired, they explore (with a vintage twist): design, style, decorating, refinishing and other cool stuff both locally and globally.