California is home to many incredible flea markets and vintage shopping experiences, but none more iconic than the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena. It’s held on the second Sunday of each month, so it’s happening today across the country from me. My first Rose Bowl experience was about 10 years ago, when Jill and her family were living in Orange, CA. I came to town for a visit, and we knew this event had to be on our antiquing list. I had just moved into my new house and was on the hunt for just about everything. Here’s a recap of that visit and some tips for when you go:
Show History
The Rose Bowl Flea Market has been one of the most well-attended of its kind in the country. It’s an incredible outdoor experience at Rose Bowl stadium (the 17th largest stadium in the world), and a place of such historic significance on its own. The event features over 2,500 unique vendors and sees about 20,000 shoppers every month.
Our Visit
As Jill and I approached the stadium entrance we were taking pictures like we were kids in front of Disney Castle. Lol. I guess to us, it was. And then our jaws dropped as we turned the corner to a sea of vintage goodness. Usually at a flea market, you will pass a few vendors that don’t match your style. I remember that we rarely skipped a booth at Rose Bowl…they were all THAT good. We both took home some great stuff that day, but also a ton of inspiration. I think that was just as valuable to us.
What can you Find?
The Rose Bowl Flea Market has an incredible reputation as the best flea market on the west coast for a reason. With 2,500 vendors full of amazing vintage finds, there is a lot to sift through so it can be overwhelming. For this event, having a game plan and a want-list is so important. There will be countless temptations as you meander through the aisles, so if you can keep focused on what you need you can avoid too many impulse purchases. If your plan is to be spontaneous and pick up what speaks to you…then by all means, be prepared to be inspired. The flea market offers everything from mid-century furniture to fabulous vintage clothing. Thankfully, the event is divided into zones (see map below) so you can navigate more easily. Typically, visitors looking for vintage clothing are focused on that and won’t have time to wander over to the antiques and furniture, and vice versa.
What to Know and When to Go
Getting There/Parking: The stadium itself is one of the largest in the country, so the parking lot is too. They do offer a VIP parking area that is more expensive, and from what I could see, not that much closer than regular parking.
What to Wear: The Rose Bowl is 7 miles long. Not wearing comfortable shoes will make this experience miserable. I will say, my shoes (see photo) were cute and flat and fine for most of the day. But it was really hot, and they didn’t do well as the day went on. I was kicking myself for not wearing smarter shoes and so were my bandaged feet. Some sort of hat is also non-negotiable. There is no shade at this outdoor flea market so the sun will be in your eyes. Remember to check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella if rain is expected.
What to Bring: A CART! Wire framed grocery carts are great because they stand upright and they fold up easily when not in use. A wagon will fit the most items if you’re anticipating a big haul, but they are a bit trickier to navigate through the aisles. Choose the option that works best for you. Also, don’t forget a measuring tape (as well as any measurements you’ve noted for spaces in your home you’re looking to fill) and a dolly to transport any large items (leave that in your car though – you can always go and get it if you need it).
Food/Drink: I highly recommend bringing water and snacks with you. There are food and drink options once you’re inside, but it’s limited. If you pack wisely, you will have more choices for food because you won’t be desperate.
Costs for Entry: Entry tickets for this event must be paid in cash with exact change. Entry fees are also staggered, becoming cheaper as the day goes on so be aware of this in advance. Early birds get access to the best pieces, so the fee is the highest at that time:
- VIP (5:00 am- 7:00 am): $20
- Early (5:00 am – 8:30 am): $18
- Express (8:00 am – 9:00 am): $14
- Regular (9:00 am – 3:00 pm): $10
- Children under 12 enter free with an adult
Other Notes: Come with plenty of cash. Some vendors accept Venmo and credit cards, but it’s a good idea have cash, especially if you plan on negotiating prices. Pets are not allowed at this event (with the exception of service dogs).
Show Schedule
The Rose Bowl Flea occurs the second Sunday of every month, all year long. The event is always crowded, and the best stuff goes first, so it’s always recommended to get there early. Like 5-6 a.m. early. Seems kinda crazy, but if you want to get there before the good stuff is picked over, it’s worth it. Do keep in mind that the show ends at 4:00 and vendors sometimes start packing up at 3. This can bode well for negotiating if you’re there at that time.
Not only is this a flea market worth visiting over and over again, but it’s also a fantastic destination event to plan a trip around. I personally cannot wait to visit again sometime soon.
~ Beckie
Note: I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a special shoutout to Jill’s fantastic husband Kevin, who packaged up all of my vintage finds from this trip and had them shipped to me in Michigan. I’ve never forgotten that. 😉