The Old Town Flea Market in Pasadena, located at 106 East Colorado Boulevard in the heart of historic Old Town Pasadena, represents Southern California’s most refined and carefully curated vintage shopping experience. Held every second Saturday of the month from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, this monthly marketplace celebration has become a beloved destination for vintage enthusiasts, fashion collectors, artisan makers, and creative seekers throughout the Los Angeles area. Unlike sprawling flea markets with hundreds of vendors creating overwhelming sensory experiences, the Old Town Flea Market intentionally maintains an intimate, boutique atmosphere featuring only 40 expertly selected vendors, each offering carefully curated selections of authentic vintage clothing, mid-century furniture, handcrafted jewelry, vinyl records, and artistic creations. Nestled along the historic Route 66 corridor with stunning Pasadena architecture as its backdrop, this marketplace captures the essence of Southern California’s enduring vintage culture while maintaining genuine community values and artistic integrity.
The Heart of Pasadena’s Vintage Culture & Community Spirit
The Old Town Flea Market represents far more than a shopping event it embodies a cultural celebration of sustainability, artistic expression, and community connection. This monthly gathering reflects Pasadena’s reputation as a hub of creative energy, attracting independent vendors, small-batch makers, and passionate collectors who view their participation as cultural contribution rather than mere commerce. The marketplace prioritizes quality over quantity, with each vendor carefully selected to ensure unique, authentic merchandise that reflects genuine passion and expertise.
The Pasadena location adds immeasurable charm. The marketplace sits within one of Southern California’s most walkable, artistically vibrant neighborhoods, surrounded by excellent coffee shops, acclaimed restaurants, independent boutiques, and galleries. This context transforms marketplace shopping from isolated commercial activity into a comprehensive cultural and culinary experience reflecting Pasadena’s sophisticated, creative character.
Current Operating Hours & Schedule for 2025
| Frequency | Operating Days | Opening Time | Closing Time | Location | Year-Round |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Second Saturday | 10:00 AM | 4:00 PM | 106 E Colorado Blvd | Yes, Every Month |
The Old Town Flea Market operates consistently on the second Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, providing a predictable, reliable schedule for planning purposes. This monthly frequency creates an ongoing tradition while maintaining the special, anticipated nature of the event. Shoppers can mark their calendars well in advance, knowing exactly when the next market will occur. The 10:00 AM opening allows for leisurely morning preparation before heading to the marketplace, while the 4:00 PM closing provides a full six-hour shopping window for comprehensive exploring. Browse our ultimate guide to California flea markets to uncover local treasures, vintage deals, and markets worth a road-trip.
The early afternoon daylight hours ensure optimal lighting for shopping and photography, with natural sunlight illuminating vendor displays beautifully. Morning arrival provides comfortable shopping conditions before afternoon heat intensifies, particularly during Southern California’s warmer months.
Essential Marketplace Information at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Old Town Flea Market / Bidstitch Flea Market |
| Address | 106 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91105 |
| Historic Location | Along Route 66 in Old Town Pasadena |
| Operating Schedule | Second Saturday Monthly, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Number of Vendors | 40 Curated Vendors |
| Vendor Type | Carefully Selected, High-Quality |
| Admission Fee | Completely Free |
| Parking | Municipal Garages, Paid Lots, Street Parking |
| Public Transportation | Metro Gold Line Access |
| Bike Facilities | Racks Throughout Old Town |
| Dog-Friendly | Yes, Leashed Dogs Welcome |
| Payment Methods | Cash Preferred; Most Accept Cards |
The marketplace operates within a specifically curated framework that distinguishes it from conventional flea markets. The venue, located in CTRL Collective’s parking lot accessed from Colorado Boulevard, provides convenient parking and weather flexibility for vendors and shoppers. The location’s pedestrian-friendly Old Town setting encourages extended marketplace experiences that can incorporate dining, gallery visits, and boutique shopping.
Admission & Parking Information
Admission is completely free, making it easy to stop by even if you are just browsing or looking for weekend inspiration. No tickets or pre-registration are required simply show up and enjoy. This generous free admission policy reflects the market’s community-focused philosophy and commitment to accessibility.
Parking in Old Town Pasadena requires strategic navigation but remains manageable. Multiple public parking garages and paid lots are conveniently located within a few blocks of the marketplace. Rates vary by facility, typically ranging from $2-5 for the marketplace duration. Limited street parking is available, though peak Saturday hours make street parking unreliable. Given the walkable Old Town setting, several shoppers prefer using ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, arriving without parking concerns.
The market is easily accessible via the Metro Gold Line, with stations just a short walk away, providing excellent transportation alternatives for Los Angeles area residents. For eco-friendly travelers, bike racks throughout Old Town Pasadena make cycling a viable option, with safe, pedestrian-friendly streets facilitating navigation without vehicles.
Vendor Categories & Curated Merchandise Selection
| Category | Item Types | Selection Level | Vendor Count | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vintage Clothing | Retro Fashion, Denim, Dresses, Jackets, Accessories | Exceptional | 12-15 Vendors | Expert Styling, Quality Pieces |
| Furniture & Home Décor | Mid-Century Modern, Rustic, Antiques, Décor | Excellent | 8-10 Vendors | Authentic Pieces, Design Expertise |
| Artisan Crafts & Jewelry | Handmade Jewelry, Ceramics, Candles, Gifts | Excellent | 8-12 Vendors | One-of-a-Kind Items, Local Makers |
| Vinyl Records & Collectibles | Rare Records, Music, Retro Goods, Memorabilia | Good | 4-6 Vendors | Curated Collections, Music Expertise |
| Plants & Garden Items | Succulents, Pottery, Garden Accessories, Plants | Good | 3-5 Vendors | Seasonal Availability, Local Sources |
| Art & Prints | Paintings, Prints, Illustrations, Artwork | Good | 3-5 Vendors | Local Artists, Original Works |
The Old Town Flea Market hosts around 40 curated vendors, carefully selected for quality and uniqueness. Unlike large-scale flea markets with hundreds of booths, this event is smaller but more boutique in style, ensuring every vendor offers something special. Vendor diversity remains consistent across months while selections rotate, maintaining the sense of discovery and novelty characteristic of great marketplaces.
Artisan crafts and jewelry represent another market highlight, with local makers showcasing handcrafted ceramics, unique jewelry designs, artisanal candles, and specialty gifts. These vendors often interact directly with shoppers, sharing creative processes and stories behind their work. The one-of-a-kind nature of artisan goods ensures no two visits yield identical selections.
Vendor Booth Costs & Rental Information
| Booth Type | Dimensions | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor Space | 13′ × 13′ | $425 |
| Indoor Space | 9′ × 9′ | $350 |
| Tabletop Booth | Variable | $275 |
| Outdoor Space | 10′ × 20′ | $350 |
| Outdoor Space | 10′ × 15′ | $300 |
| Food Trucks | Vehicle-Based | $150 |
This flexible pricing structure allows both established vintage dealers and small-batch creators to participate, democratizing vendor opportunities. The range accommodates vendors with varying inventory sizes and business models. Indoor spaces provide weather protection for delicate items, while outdoor options accommodate larger furniture or higher-volume merchandise. Tabletop booths serve emerging vendors or those testing market participation before committing to larger spaces.
The modest food truck fee reflects the marketplace’s integration of culinary experiences with shopping. Food vendors add essential cultural dimensions, providing refreshment and enhancing the comprehensive marketplace experience.
Nearby Hotels & Accommodations
For visitors traveling from outside Pasadena seeking overnight accommodations near the marketplace:
| Hotel Name | Distance from Market | Hotel Category | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Courtyard by Marriott Old Pasadena | 0.3 Miles | Mid-Range | Convenient Location, Modern Comfort | Shopping-Focused Visits |
| The Langham Huntington Pasadena | 0.5 Miles | Luxury | Historic Elegance, Full Service | Premium Experiences |
| Hyatt Place Pasadena | 0.2 Miles | Mid-Range | Centrally Located, Modern Amenities | Family & Group Visits |
| Saga Motor Hotel | 0.1 Miles | Budget | Retro Style, Budget-Friendly | Budget Travelers |
| Pasadena Hilton | 0.4 Miles | Mid-Range | Full Service, Historic Property | Business & Leisure |
These convenient accommodations position overnight visitors steps from the marketplace and Old Town Pasadena’s restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. Many hotels offer weekend packages combining lodging with marketplace experiences and dining opportunities.
Famous Vendor Stalls & Market Highlights
Each month’s vendor lineup changes, so no two visits are identical. However, shoppers consistently encounter stellar vendor categories reflecting the marketplace’s curatorial standards. Curated vintage clothing stalls feature timeless wardrobe staples styled by experts who understand fashion history and contemporary styling, helping shoppers envision pieces within modern wardrobes.
Local artists and makers with paintings, prints, and handmade ceramics provide continuous discovery opportunities. This vendor category particularly attracts emerging artists gaining marketplace experience and building customer bases. Supporting these vendors directly funds creative practice and artistic development.
Comprehensive Transportation & Accessibility Information
Parking in Old Town Pasadena requires strategic navigation. The flea market is surrounded by several public parking garages and paid lots within convenient walking distance. Most garages are located within a few blocks, with rates typically ranging from $2-5 for the marketplace duration. Since parking fills up quickly on Saturday mornings, arriving before 10:30 AM increases likelihood of convenient parking.
For eco-friendly travelers, bike racks throughout Old Town Pasadena facilitate cycling options. The neighborhood’s pedestrian-friendly streets and traffic-calming measures make cycling safe and enjoyable. Many shoppers cycle from adjacent residential neighborhoods, reducing environmental impact while supporting sustainable transportation.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Visiting the Old Town Flea Market for the first time requires minimal preparation, though several strategies optimize your experience and enjoyment.
Arrive Early for Optimal Selection and Parking
Plan to arrive by 10:15 AM, shortly after opening, for the best vendor selection and most convenient parking. Early shoppers enjoy less crowded conditions, allowing focused browsing and personal vendor interaction. Early morning light provides ideal photography conditions for documenting finds before heading home.
Bring Cash in Small Denominations
While many vendors accept cards, bringing cash in small bills facilitates smoother transactions and supports vendors who may face card-processing fees. Some artisan makers prefer cash transactions exclusively. Varied denominations enable convenient transactions and potential small negotiation opportunities.
Wear Comfortable, Supportive Footwear
Plan to walk throughout the marketplace extensively while browsing vendor booths. Comfortable, broken-in shoes with excellent arch support prevent foot fatigue during the six-hour marketplace window. Avoid new shoes or uncomfortable styles that might limit your shopping enjoyment.
Bring Reusable Shopping Bags with Substantial Capacity
The quality and uniqueness of available merchandise often results in unanticipated purchases. Multiple sturdy bags provide carrying capacity while reducing environmental impact. Quality bags protect delicate items like ceramics and jewelry from damage during transport home.
Instagram-Worthy Moments & Photo Opportunities
Every corner of the Old Town Flea Market offers photogenic opportunities perfect for social media documentation. Shoppers love capturing colorful racks of vintage clothes styled by expert vendors, with cascading fabrics and organized arrangements creating visually compelling images. The artful displays reflect vendor expertise and aesthetic sensibility.
Pasadena’s classic architecture and street scenes provide perfect framing for marketplace moments. Colorado Boulevard’s historic character, surrounding buildings’ architectural details, and the vibrant marketplace energy create layered, visually rich photographic opportunities. Early morning light during marketplace opening hours provides ideal natural illumination for photography.
Special Features & Community Engagement
The Old Town Flea Market maintains strong community engagement through social media interaction, vendor communication, and responsive event planning. Organizers actively solicit vendor and shopper feedback, continuously improving the marketplace experience. This commitment to community input ensures the market evolves responsively to participant needs and preferences.
The marketplace hosts special events and seasonal variations, with summer markets potentially featuring extended hours or outdoor entertainment. Holiday seasons bring special vendor lineups and festive atmosphere. Following official communications ensures awareness of these special opportunities.
Dog-friendly policies welcome leashed, well-behaved pets, making the marketplace accessible for pet owners. The outdoor location and spacious layout accommodate canine companions comfortably, transforming the shopping experience into social activity for pet-owning communities.
Why the Old Town Flea Market Is a Must-Visit Destination
What makes the Old Town Flea Market stand out is its blend of boutique curation and community atmosphere. Unlike larger, overwhelming flea markets, this one is small enough to feel personal but large enough to keep you exploring for hours. Its prime location in Old Town Pasadena adds charm, as visitors can pair flea shopping with coffee shops, restaurants, and other local boutiques nearby.
For Los Angeles area residents seeking authentic vintage experiences, the Old Town Flea Market offers unparalleled quality, convenience, and charm. The monthly schedule allows sustainable engagement regular participation without overwhelming frequency. Relationships develop between regular shoppers and favorite vendors, transforming marketplace visiting from transactional activity into genuine community participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When is the Old Town Flea Market held each month?
The Old Town Flea Market operates the second Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This consistent schedule allows for reliable planning and participation.
Q2: Is admission free to visit the marketplace?
Yes, admission is completely free for all visitors. No advance tickets or registration are required simply arrive and enjoy.
Q3: How many vendors typically participate in the marketplace?
Around 40 carefully curated vendors participate at each market, ensuring quality selections and manageable marketplace size. Vendor lineups rotate monthly, providing continuously fresh selections.
Q4: What types of merchandise can I find at the marketplace?
Expect vintage clothing, mid-century furniture, antiques, home décor, handcrafted jewelry, artisan crafts, vinyl records, collectibles, plants, and art from local creators. The curated vendor selection ensures quality across all categories.
Q5: Is parking available near the marketplace?
Multiple public parking garages and paid lots are conveniently located within a few blocks of the marketplace. Street parking is limited but available. Ride-share services provide convenient alternatives for those avoiding parking concerns.
Q6: Can I access the marketplace via public transportation?
Yes, the Metro Gold Line provides excellent access with stations just a short walk away. The marketplace’s Old Town Pasadena location ensures pedestrian-friendly connectivity with regional public transit systems.
Q7: Are pets allowed at the marketplace?
Yes, the market is dog-friendly. Dogs must remain on a leash and be well-behaved to maintain a pleasant environment for all visitors and vendors.
Q8: How can I apply as a vendor or rent booth space?
Vendor applications are available through official marketplace communications and the Old Town Pasadena organization. Booth spaces are limited and competitive, requiring submission of vendor information and merchandise descriptions. Contact organizers directly for current application procedures and availability.
Q9: Can I bring my own shopping bags for purchases?
Yes, bringing reusable shopping bags is encouraged and practical. Multiple bags provide carrying capacity for unexpected finds while reducing environmental impact of marketplace shopping.
Q10: What should I expect in terms of pricing at the marketplace?
Pricing reflects the curated, quality nature of merchandise. Vintage clothing typically ranges from $15-75, furniture from $100-800, artisan jewelry from $30-200, and handmade items from $20-150. Prices represent authentic value for genuine, unique items rather than mass-produced budget goods.
Final Thoughts & Planning Your Visit
The Old Town Flea Market in Pasadena represents the most refined, curated flea market experience in the Los Angeles area. With its free entry, boutique vendor lineup, and scenic Old Town location, it delivers a shopping experience that feels both inspiring and accessible. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a casual browser, you will find plenty to love at this carefully curated marketplace.
The marketplace’s integration within Old Town Pasadena transforms shopping into comprehensive cultural experiences. Combining marketplace exploration with excellent coffee, acclaimed restaurants, galleries, and boutiques creates all-day destination appeal. Many shoppers dedicate entire Saturday mornings to marketplace visits followed by leisurely Old Town lunch and gallery browsing.
Mark your calendar for the second Saturday of next month and explore Pasadena’s most vibrant community marketplace. Arrive early for optimal selection and parking, bring cash and reusable bags, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare yourself for an inspiring, authentic vintage shopping experience. The Old Town Flea Market awaits with carefully curated treasures, talented vendors, and the promise of discovery along historic Route 66 in beautiful Old Town Pasadena.
