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Ashby Flea Market Berkeley

4.1
·455 reviews·Berkeley, United States

Eclectic weekend market at Ashby BART Station offering antiques, collectibles, crafts, and international food.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Busiest day for finds

CrowdMedium
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Second hand necklaces

Ashby Flea Market Berkeley

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Busiest day for finds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Eclectic weekend market at Ashby BART Station offering antiques, collectibles, crafts, and international food.

4.1
(455 reviews)

"It has a nice vibe again and deserves our support! I found some good bargains. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys

Saturday mornings are prime time for the best selection and deals.

💰 Bring Cash for Vendors

While some vendors might accept digital payments, cash is king for quick transactions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Clothing & Y2K Finds

Vintage Clothing & Y2K Finds

Various vendor stalls

Score unique vintage outfits and Y2K fashion pieces. A thrifter's paradise!

TikTok+1
Handmade Crafts & Art

Handmade Crafts & Art

Artisan vendor booths

Discover one-of-a-kind handmade crafts and support local artists.

Instagram+1
Antiques and Collectibles

Antiques and Collectibles

Antique vendor stalls

Hunt for treasures from the past, from unique decor to nostalgic items.

Reddit
International Food Stalls

International Food Stalls

Designated food areas

Enjoy diverse culinary delights from Nepalese to Afghan cuisine.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Ashby Flea Market

The Ashby Flea Market, a long-standing Berkeley institution, is located at the Ashby BART station parking lot. While it has faced challenges, recent efforts aim to revitalize it. Check social media for the most current operating status and any special event announcements before you go. Instagram+1

What to Expect at Ashby

This market offers a diverse range of items, from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts and vintage clothing. TikTokInstagram+1 While some reviews mention declining attendance in the past, recent feedback suggests a positive vibe with new management and security. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Busiest day for finds
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Less crowded, potential deals
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Successful shopping day on 4th St in Berkeley 🧸🤍 #fyp #foryou #berkeley #shop #shopping #Vlog #4thstreet #fleamarket #city #explore #travel #brunch
@anna_shimmy
3.5K likes • 132.2K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys

Saturday mornings are prime time for the best selection and deals. TikTokReddit

💰 Bring Cash for Vendors

While some vendors might accept digital payments, cash is king for quick transactions. TikTok

farmer's market downtown berkeley every saturday! peaches and strawberries were so good #ucberkeley #berkeley #college #co27 #firstyear #collegefood #fruit #farmersmarket
@oliviacaii
3.2K likes • 38.9K views
The Berkeley Flea Market, also widely known as the Ashby Flea Market, is on the verge of shutting down, its managers say, after years of declining attendance from shoppers and sellers have left the half-century-old institution hemorrhaging money. The flea market has long been a fixture in South Berkeley, dating back to the opening of Ashby BART station in 1973. In the early 2010s, more than 200 ...
berkeleyside
461 likes • 15.7K views

🛍️ Reusable Bags are Key

Be prepared to carry your finds! Bring your own bags to be eco-friendly. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Obvious

Wander through all the aisles; hidden gems are often found in less crowded spots. Reddit

We're missing you! Come see us this weekend at the Berkeley Flea Market at Ashby Bart Station Parking lot! ° ° ° #berkeleyfleamarket #fleamarketlove #berkeleyca
berkeleyfleamarket
4 likes • 146 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Best Buys

Saturday mornings are prime time for the best selection and deals. TikTokReddit

💰 Bring Cash for Vendors

While some vendors might accept digital payments, cash is king for quick transactions. TikTok

🛍️ Reusable Bags are Key

Be prepared to carry your finds! Bring your own bags to be eco-friendly. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Obvious

Wander through all the aisles; hidden gems are often found in less crowded spots. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy the Vibe

Soak in the atmosphere, from live music to unique vendor interactions. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.1
(455 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Ashby Flea Market is experiencing a resurgence with new management focused on improving the vendor experience and customer safety. Visitors appreciate the diverse range of items, from vintage clothing to handmade crafts and international food. While it has faced challenges, current feedback highlights a positive vibe and good bargains, making it a worthwhile destination for shoppers and vendors alike. InstagramReddit

"The new management are very nice, committed to the comeback, and doing their best for the vendors and the customers. They’ve cleaned up the disreputable sellers and there’s plenty of security.

It has a nice vibe again and deserves our support! I found some good bargains and the Nepalese and Afghan booths are still there and highly recommended.

It’s also an easy and fun experience if you want to try selling instead of a garage sale. We tried it out and we made back our booth fee plus enough for a good dinner out and our gas, and cleaned out a lot of stuff.

Saturday is busier than Sunday.

Have fun!"

Sarah D

"Berkeley flea market in Berkeley California its open every weekend , has lots of vendors, location is good right infront of the ashby metro bart sation"

Louise Boilevin

"Good place for vendors, Nice and Clean for Costumers, Buyer’s, Security Guard all over the place.. not long distance from freeways, Good food , Good Prices, very nice People good energy 👍👍👍👍🙏🙏🫶🫶🫶😍😍😎😎😎"

javier soto

What People Like

Diverse vendor selection
Good bargains found
Vibrant community atmosphere

What People Dislike

Past attendance decline
Occasional parking issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ashby Flea Market is conveniently located at the Ashby BART Station parking lot in Berkeley, CA. Reddit This makes it easily accessible via public transportation. If driving, note that parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Yes, parking is available at the Ashby BART Station lot. However, it can get crowded, especially on Saturdays. Reddit Consider using BART or arriving early to secure a spot. Reddit

The market typically operates on weekends, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Instagram It's always a good idea to check their social media or local listings for any last-minute changes or special event hours. Instagram

Absolutely! The market is situated right at the Ashby BART Station, making it incredibly easy to reach via the BART train system. Reddit

From San Francisco, take a BART train heading towards Richmond or Antioch and get off at the Ashby Station. The market is located in the station's parking lot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Ashby Flea Market is generally free. You can wander through the stalls and browse without purchasing a ticket. Instagram

Typically, there is no admission fee to enter the Ashby Flea Market. You pay for the items you wish to purchase from vendors. Instagram

The Ashby Flea Market is usually open every weekend, on both Saturdays and Sundays. InstagramReddit

While not always advertised far in advance, the market sometimes hosts special events or pop-ups. Following their social media can keep you updated. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Ashby Flea Market is a great place for vendors to sell their goods. Reddit Contacting the market management or checking their social media for vendor information is recommended. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience

You can find a wide variety of items including antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, art, books, and unique treasures. TikTokInstagram+2

Saturday mornings tend to be the busiest. Reddit Sundays are generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed browsing experience. Reddit

Yes, there are food vendors offering various cuisines, including Nepalese and Afghan options. Reddit

Recent reviews indicate that there is security present at the market, contributing to a safer environment. Reddit

The atmosphere is often described as vibrant and community-oriented, with a mix of music, diverse vendors, and friendly shoppers. InstagramReddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful of vendors and ask permission before taking close-up shots of their merchandise or them. Instagram

Look for colorful vendor displays, unique vintage items, and candid moments of shoppers and artists. The live art sections can also be visually interesting. Instagram

For commercial photography or filming, it's best to contact the market management in advance to inquire about permits or guidelines. Instagram

A candid, street-style approach often captures the essence of a flea market. Focus on details, textures, and the interactions between people and objects. Instagram

It's polite to ask vendors if you can take photos of their specific stalls or items. Many are happy to oblige, especially if you express interest in their products. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ashby Flea Market can be a fun outing for families. Kids might enjoy browsing for unique toys, colorful crafts, and interesting trinkets. Instagram The food stalls offer a variety of options that can appeal to different tastes. Reddit On Saturdays, the market can get busy, so keeping a close eye on children is important. Consider visiting on a Sunday for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Look for vendors selling children's books or handmade toys. The lively atmosphere and diverse sights and sounds can be engaging for younger visitors. Instagram It's a great opportunity to teach kids about different cultures through food and to appreciate handmade items. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Ashby Flea Market is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers looking for unique finds without breaking the bank. Many vendors offer bargains and good prices, especially if you're willing to haggle respectfully or visit on a Sunday. TikTokReddit

Bring cash to make transactions smoother and potentially negotiate better deals. TikTok Reusable bags are also a smart choice to carry your finds and save on purchasing new ones. TikTok The free entry and the potential to find affordable treasures make it a prime spot for those watching their spending. Reddit

🛍️ Thrifting Enthusiasts

For dedicated thrifters, the Ashby Flea Market is a must-visit. The market is known for its vintage clothing selection, offering a chance to discover unique styles and pieces that stand out. TikTok+1 Beyond apparel, keep an eye out for collectibles, retro home decor, and unique accessories. Reddit

Saturday mornings are typically the best time for serious thrifting, as vendors bring out their freshest stock. Reddit Be prepared to dig through items and be patient; the best finds often require a bit of searching. TikTok Engaging with vendors can also lead to discovering hidden gems they might not have prominently displayed. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Future of Ashby Flea Market

The Ashby Flea Market, a beloved fixture in Berkeley for decades, has a rich history dating back to 1973. Instagram It has served as a vibrant hub for the local community, uniting diverse groups and offering a unique shopping experience. Instagram+1 For years, it was known for its eclectic mix of antiques, collectibles, and handmade goods, drawing shoppers seeking one-of-a-kind finds. TikTok+1

In recent years, the market has faced challenges, including declining attendance and discussions about its future. Instagram+1 However, new management has been working to revitalize the market, focusing on cleaning up the vendor base, enhancing security, and fostering a positive atmosphere. Reddit This renewed effort aims to bring back the market's former glory and ensure its continued presence in Berkeley. InstagramReddit

Visitors can expect a market that is actively working to regain its footing, offering a blend of traditional flea market finds and a renewed sense of community spirit. Reddit Supporting the market through visits and purchases is crucial for its long-term success. Instagram

Finding Unique Treasures: What to Look For

The Ashby Flea Market is a treasure trove for those seeking unique items. Vintage clothing enthusiasts can spend hours sifting through racks for one-of-a-kind pieces, from retro dresses to classic band tees. TikTok+1 Antiques and collectibles are also abundant, offering opportunities to find anything from old records and books to decorative items and quirky memorabilia. Reddit

Beyond vintage and antique finds, the market showcases the talent of local artisans. You can discover handmade crafts, jewelry, art, and other unique creations directly from the makers. Instagram+1 Don't forget to explore the international food stalls for a taste of diverse cuisines, adding another layer to the sensory experience of the market. Reddit

Remember that the joy of a flea market is in the discovery. Be open to browsing, engage with vendors, and you might just stumble upon that perfect, unexpected find that makes your visit memorable. Reddit

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