Big Deals!
Flea markets offer a little bit of everything
Where the name flea market came from is hard to pinpoint. Many believe the term came from the French phrase marché aux puces, which translates directly to market with fleas. These markets, dating back to about 1860 in France, specialized in second-hand goods—so many second-hand articles of all kinds they were said to gather fleas. The goods may or may not have had actual fleas on them. The earliest flea market in America was likely one that took place in Texas in 1873.
Flea markets have long been attractive to shoppers because of their unusual wares, unique discoveries, and great deals. Two of Southwest Florida's flea markets—Fleamasters in Fort Myers and Flamingo Island in Bonita Springs—offer even more, including live music and family-friendly events.
“At both locations, we have live music on the weekends from October to April, and events throughout the year, such as Pumpkin Palooza, Easter Eggstravaganza, Watermelon Festival, Holidays with Santa, and our mid-July Family Fun Fest that includes face painters, games, balloon artists, and more,” says Jessica Jeffers, director of marketing for United Flea Markets, which operates 15 facilities in 10 states.
Fleamasters offers more than 400,000 square feet of shopping with 1,000-plus sellers every weekend; and Flamingo Island has more than 600 bargain-packed booths. No matter which location, shoppers are sure to find anything from new clothing to used books, crafts, baked goods, fishing gear, furniture, jewelry, shoes, cosmetics, art, fresh flowers, and produce—all for a great deal. Admission and parking are free at each location.
“What makes a trip to the flea market memorable is the ability to find a little bit of everything out here, including that vintage vinyl you have been searching for to add to your collection, a glass blowfish to take home to your grandma, a new outfit you didn't know you needed, a new (or used) book you have been dying to read,” says Jeffers.
Fort Myers shopper Alice George says, “I head over to Fleamasters when I am looking for a special something or just feel like browsing. It's a fun and festive place to enjoy a few hours or a full day when the grandkids come to town. It's our go-to place.
“I also go to Flamingo Island, where I always make it a point to go to the consignment cove for great deals on used items. It's like a fun garage sale,” says George. “Afterwards, we always enjoy our ice cream.”
Both locations offer live music, and the Music Hall at Fleamasters features state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and video production for its live concerts.
Indeed, many visitors make a day of it, as they can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner right at the market. Plenty of