Torontonians may be surprised by how many flea markets there are nearby, and with a couple of downtown additions catering to the hipster set, surely the trend is growing. From year-round indoor bazaars to festive summer swap meets, locals have plenty of options to get involved.
The Leslieville Flea, introduced in June, is held the third Sunday each month at Leslie Street and Queen Street East behind the venerable Duke Tavern. Co-founders Brigid Elmy and Christine Roberts hope that the market appeals to everyone, from serious collectors to casual locals looking for something fun and affordable. It features vintage and salvaged items, art, antiques and more.
With a grand opening on July 7 and a second date on Aug. 4, the Parkdale Flea features new bargains and bartering of antiques, deals and collectables from local artisans as well as a healthy supply of food and drink. The market is located at 1266 Queen St. W., where city shoppers can browse both outdoors and inside.
Also don’t miss out on the Junction Flea. Held on the second Sunday of every month, the market is possibly Toronto’s trendiest in the west end and features more than 70 vendors with vintage clothing and handmade arts and crafts as well as some serious food options. You could even get your portrait etched on sheet metal should you desire such a luxury.
Of course, no roundup of flea markets would be complete without the award-winning Dr. Flea’s Flea Market. Toronto’s largest indoor flea market showcases more than 400 vendors every weekend all year, with free admission and parking.
Meanwhile, the Merchants’ Flea Market is an indoor extravaganza with over 250 booths and is open weekends year-round.
In fact, there are many year-round weekend flea markets across Toronto and the GTA. The Downsview Park Merchants Market has hundreds of vendors as well as a new antique market and kids’ amusement area. The Toronto Weston Flea Market is also quite the bazaar bonanza, hosting an outdoor farmers’ market from April to October.
Whether trendy settings or shopping spree spectacles, Toronto flea markets are a steal.