Region
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Southern California, between the bustling cities of Los Angeles and Orange County, is the Long Beach Antique Market. Also known as the Long Beach Flea Market, this treasure trove is a haven for lovers of outdoor furniture, secondhand decor, antiques, and an array of garden ceramics and statuary. Reflecting the region's famous patio-living culture, the market offers an eclectic and extensive selection of items to enhance any outdoor or indoor space.
Since its inception in 1982, Lynn and Donald Moger have been at the helm of the Long Beach Antique Market. Held on the third Sunday of each month at Veterans Stadium, the event has grown in both size and reputation. The Mogers' commitment to authenticity is evident in their strict enforcement of a 20-year rule, ensuring that items like the beloved Fiestaware and classic '50s Pyrex bowls are genuine and not recent reproductions.
Covering more than 20 acres, the market is a bustling hub for more than 800 vendors. These vendors offer a wide variety of items, including chic and unique antiques, collectibles and vintage pieces, all at bargain prices. The market's diversity is staggering, ranging fromfurniture, estate and costume jewelry, vintage clothing from the 1920s to the 1990s, kitchenware, collectibles, art, metalware, lighting, ephemera, textiles, advertising, musical instruments, rugs, toys, architectural salvage, garden architectural, and much more.
More than just a shopping destination, the Long Beach Antique Market is a cultural hotspot, regularly featured in documentaries and television series for its unique character and diverse offerings. It gained notable attention when it was featured in an episode of HGTV's "Flea Market Flip." The show featured teams competing to find and transform items from the Long Beach flea market, showcasing the market's vast potential for creative repurposing.
Lara Spencer, co-host of ABC's Good Morning America and a noted flea market enthusiast, can often be seen exploring the aisles of the Long Beach market on Sunday mornings. The market's appeal extends beyond its items; it's a source of inspiration and creativity. Lynn Moger recalls seeing an old railroad car repurposed as a coffee table and vintage file cabinets transformed into a stylish bedroom dresser. One of the unique features she highlights is the convenience of "real toilets" that enhance the visitor experience.
The market thrives not only on its merchandise, but also on its location and ambiance. With its sunny beachside location and popular beer vendors, the Long Beach Antique Market exudes a street fair atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike flock to the market not only to shop, but also to enjoy a leisurely stroll while basking in the soothing ocean breeze. Held rain or shine, this monthly event has become a beloved tradition, offering a slice of Southern California culture and a unique shopping experience all rolled into one.
Max Norton
7th May 2015 at 02:12Smaller and more manageable than the Rose Bowl but still has stalls and stalls of incredible treasures.
Tommy Bridges
3rd February 2016 at 15:56This is a very large Antique Flea market. The weather is always nice but bring a hat and cart. Lots of Smalls and Jewelry. Also some furniture pieces but Rose Bowl Swap meet has more. The nick knacks are more reasonable here then the Rose Bowl. Dealers are nicer here then Rose Bowl. Also admission is half of Rose Bowl. There is lots of parking, good bathrooms. Beer to buy and other treats!
Deborah Byrd
26th June 2016 at 21:25An all day affair. Tons of treasures to be found and bargained for. Lots of free parking. Lots of twists and turns you’d swear you must’ve missed a spot. There is an entrance fee, it costs more to be an early bird. but that’s when all the good stuff is out and a less crowded. They have food and beer (!!). Suggest bringing cash for haggling, and just overall ease of transactions.
Also, words of advice for newbies: it’s one Sunday a month (the third), plan accordingly (vehicle space, cash, food..etc) and if you see something you absolutely cannot live without, buy it!! Guaranteed it’ll almost always be gone by the time you decide you want it.
Melanie Hawkins
1st August 2016 at 19:49Glassware, kitchenware, handcrafted furniture of every style from every part of any century, but especially the middle of last. Dolls, toys, comics, lamps, crystal chandeliers, retro rings, cameo brooches, rhinestones, faux fur, coats, paintings, posters, sculptures and $1 baby succulents. This place is huge, $6 to enter unless they’re running a promo, and just one of my favorite ways to spend a Sunday morning.
Kathryn Wagner
15th May 2017 at 21:04I love how well curated this market is! It’s easy to manage because of the layout and the vendors are very friendly. Go early as it gets hot!
Charles Robins
14th March 2020 at 19:21Great flea market , but anyone expecting to enjoy the ” sea breeze ” will be very disappointed , it’s 5 miles from the beach