Flea markets are part of the fabric of our Toronto community, so it’s always sad to see one go. Last week, one of the city’s top flea markets, the Leslieville Flea, announced their permanent closure in an Instagram post.
Founders Chris Roberts and Brigid Elmy called it the “end of an era,” sharing that the Leslieville Flea Holiday Market scheduled for Dec. 10 and 11 at The Jimmie Simpson Recreation Centre will be their very last market.
“Unbelievably, 2022 has marked our 10th season!” they wrote. “While our locations have changed over the years, our love for the vendor community and the neighbourhoods we serve have not.”
While the pair didn’t share why they were ending the flea, they did note that they hoped someone would be interested in taking on the brand and continuing on the market. “We would LOVE to see this brand and more importantly the community weโve built over the past decade transition into the hands of someone whoโs passionate about continuing to run the market for our amazing community!” they wrote. The pair said the flea provided them with reliable part-time income over the years and they are now evaluating their business assets and social media following for anyone who might be interested in taking it on.
Hopefully, the Leslieville Flea isn’t gone forever. But for now, here are four other flea markets in the city to get your fill of all things antique, vintage and one-of-a-kind!
Dr. Fleaโs Flea Market
With a variety of over 400 vendors, Dr. Fleaโs Flea Market is the largest indoor market in Toronto. This award-winning market has just reopened to feature something for the whole family. But itโs not your average market. Inside, customers will find key cutting, jewellery repair, and computer repairs. The Etobicoke market features fresh produce. Dr. Fleaโs Flea Market is located at 8 Westmore Dr. and open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Merchants Flea Market
In the heart of Scarborough, this indoor market hosts over 250 booths with distinctly local businesses. Merchantโs Flea Market has been in operation since 1988 and provides 45,000 square feet of affordable products including electronics, crafts, and collectibles. This market is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday at 1921 Eglinton Ave. E.
Kensington Flea
The Kensington Flea Bazaar started as an artisan market of vendors from the area that gathered outdoors within the Kensington area. But the market was so popular that the organizers recently opened a permanent location at 66 Kensington Ave. The flea is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Wednesdays to Sundays and features local vendors year-round. The Kensington Flea still hosts seasonal and themed markets if you’re itching for an authentic flea experience!
Downsview Park Merchantโs Market
With everything from home dรฉcor and furniture to sports memorabilia and cookware, Downsview Park Flea Market has something for everyone. This North York market features 10,000 square feet of grocery space, alongside a kidsโ arcade to keep even the young ones entertained while you shop. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, this market makes for a fun weekend trip for everyone.
