Nestled along the scenic waterfront of Alameda, California, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire has established itself as the largest and most celebrated antiques show in Northern California. Every first Sunday of the month, over 800 dealer booths transform the historic former Naval Air Station into a sprawling treasure trove where vintage enthusiasts, serious collectors, and casual browsers converge to discover one-of-a-kind finds. From mid-century modern furniture and rare collectibles to vintage clothing and artisan crafts, this monthly marketplace offers an unparalleled experience that combines the thrill of the hunt with the charm of California’s bay-side atmosphere. Continue your Bay Area vintage hunt at Oakland Flea Market and Berkeley Flea Market.
Whether you’re a seasoned antique dealer searching for inventory, a designer sourcing unique pieces for clients, or simply someone who appreciates the stories behind old objects, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire delivers an authentic, vibrant market experience that keeps visitors returning month after month. The faire’s commitment to authenticity ensures that every item sold is at least 20 years old, with no reproductions allowed, making each discovery a genuine piece of history.
A Rich History: From Naval Base to Antiques Haven
The Alameda Point Antiques Faire began in 1998 with just 250 vendor booths and approximately 3,300 antique shoppers. What started as a modest venture has evolved into a cultural institution that now hosts over 800 dealer booths and attracts more than 10,000 visitors each month. The faire’s location at the former Alameda Point Naval Air Station adds an extra layer of historical significance to your shopping experience, as you browse vintage treasures against the backdrop of this storied military site.
The transformation of this space from military installation to marketplace symbolizes the faire’s own mission: preserving history while creating new memories. Over the decades, the faire has become not just a place to buy antiques, but a community gathering spot where dealers and customers form lasting relationships, share knowledge about vintage items, and celebrate the art of collecting.
Event Schedule and Hours
Monthly Schedule
The Alameda Point Antiques Faire takes place on the first Sunday of every month, making it easy to plan your visit well in advance. The market operates rain or shine, though severe weather may occasionally necessitate rescheduling (always check the official website for any updates).
Operating Hours
The faire opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 3:00 PM, offering different admission tiers based on when you arrive:
| Time Slot | Hours | Admission Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIP Shopping | 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM | $20.00 per person | Serious collectors and dealers seeking first pick |
| Early Buy | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | $15.00 per person | Enthusiasts wanting excellent selection before crowds |
| Morning Admission | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | $10.00 per person | General shoppers, families, casual browsers |
| Afternoon Admission | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | $5.00 per person | Bargain hunters and those seeking negotiated prices |
Important: Children under 12 years of age receive free admission when accompanied by a parent or guardian. The box office accepts cash only, so be sure to bring sufficient bills for admission. Online tickets are available for the two early admission times through the official ThunderTix platform, though you’ll need to exchange them for paper tickets before entering, which can take up to 15 minutes.
Location and Contact Information
Address: 3900 Main Street, Alameda, CA 94501
Phone: (510) 522-7500
GPS Note: Some GPS systems may direct you to 2900 Navy Way – both addresses lead to the same location at the end of Main Street
| Day | Status |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday (1st of month) | 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
Getting There: Parking and Transportation
Free Parking
One of the faire’s most appreciated features is the abundance of free onsite parking. Arrive early (before 9:00 AM) to secure a spot closest to the entrance. After 9:00 AM, you may need to park approximately half a mile away from the main entrance, but the walk provides lovely waterfront views and builds anticipation for your treasure hunting adventure.
A complimentary shuttle service operates between 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM, transporting visitors from the parking lot to the faire entrance with occasional stops at the Ferry Building on Main Street. This service is particularly helpful if you’ve made large purchases or prefer not to walk the distance.
Public Transportation
AC Transit buses serve Alameda Point with convenient stops near the market. The San Francisco Bay Ferry also offers scenic service to Alameda, making the faire accessible for visitors coming from San Francisco and other bay area locations. The combination of waterfront travel and antique shopping creates a memorable day trip experience.
What to Bring
Arriving prepared enhances your shopping experience significantly:
- Cash: While many vendors now accept credit cards, cash transactions remain the standard, especially for smaller purchases and negotiations
- Reusable bags or boxes: Protect your fragile finds and reduce plastic waste
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be covering considerable ground across 800+ booths
- Water bottle: California sun can be warm, especially during morning hours
- Measuring tape: Essential for furniture shoppers
- Smartphone: For quick price comparisons, photographing items you’re considering, and capturing Instagram-worthy moments
What Makes This Faire Special
Authenticity Guaranteed
The Alameda Point Antiques Faire maintains strict standards for vendor merchandise. All items must be at least 20 years old, and reproductions are strictly prohibited. This commitment to authenticity means that every purchase carries genuine historical value and interest, whether you’re buying a Depression-era glass piece or a 1970s vinyl record collection.
Massive Selection Across Categories
- With over 800 dealer booths spread across the former naval base, the faire offers an extraordinary breadth of merchandise:
- Furniture: Mid-century modern pieces, Victorian-era dressers, Art Deco tables, vintage outdoor furniture, and everything in between
- Home Décor: Retro kitchenware, antique lamps, decorative mirrors, vintage signs, pottery, and art pieces
- Fashion: Vintage clothing from every era, costume jewelry, designer handbags, antique textiles, and accessories
- Collectibles: Vinyl records, vintage toys, memorabilia, rare books, postcards, advertising ephemera, and specialized collections
- Art and Crafts: Original artwork, vintage prints, handmade items from reclaimed materials, and artisan crafts
- Industrial and Architectural: Reclaimed building materials, vintage industrial pieces, salvaged architectural elements, and unique structural finds
Community Atmosphere
Beyond the merchandise, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire thrives on community connections. Regular vendors develop relationships with returning customers, sharing expertise about their specialized niches. Many dealers are passionate collectors themselves who love discussing the provenance and history of their items. Taking time to chat with vendors enriches your experience immensely and often leads to learning fascinating stories about the objects you’re considering.
Notable Vendors and Specialty Booths
While the vendor lineup changes somewhat from month to month, several well-established dealers consistently bring exceptional merchandise:
Rick’s Salvage Antiques has earned a reputation for remarkable reclaimed vintage industrial pieces, including factory lighting, workbenches, and architectural salvage that appeals to both designers and homeowners seeking industrial-chic décor.
The Rocking Chair Co. specializes in beautifully restored mid-century modern furniture, with particular expertise in Danish design pieces and classic American manufacturers like Herman Miller and Knoll.
Bay Area Vintage delights shoppers with an eclectic mix of retro home décor and unique art pieces, often featuring quirky conversation starters and perfectly preserved examples of various design movements.
Chubby’s Collectibles is a must-visit for anyone interested in vintage toys, memorabilia, and pop culture artifacts from the 1950s through the 1990s.
Vintage Market Finds curates an Instagram-worthy collection of retro kitchenware and decorative items, arranged with an artistic eye that makes browsing their booth a visual treat.
Retro Revival Booth offers carefully selected mid-century modern accessories, from atomic-era clocks to space-age lighting fixtures, all authenticated and often restored to pristine condition.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Arrive Early for Best Selection
The most serious collectors and dealers arrive for the 6:00 AM VIP opening, but the 7:30 AM early buy slot offers an excellent balance of selection and cost. By 9:00 AM, the faire hits its stride with maximum energy and atmosphere. If you’re after bargains and enjoy negotiating, afternoon hours (after noon) often yield better deals as vendors become more willing to negotiate rather than pack up unsold items.
Dress for Comfort
The faire covers extensive ground, and you’ll likely spend several hours browsing. Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for both paved surfaces and occasional uneven terrain. Layer your clothing, as bay area weather can shift from cool morning fog to warm afternoon sun. Consider bringing a hat and sunscreen for protection during peak hours.
Bring Appropriate Payment Methods
Although card readers have become more common, cash remains king at the Alameda Point Antiques Faire. The on-site box office accepts cash only for admission, and many smaller vendors either prefer cash or offer cash discounts. Several ATMs are available near the market entrance if you need additional funds during your visit.
Know Before You Buy
For larger furniture purchases, bring measurements of your space and doorways. Take photos of items you’re considering and don’t feel pressured to buy immediately walking the entire faire first gives you perspective on pricing and available options. However, if you find something truly special, be prepared to commit, as unique pieces rarely last beyond the morning hours.
Negotiate Respectfully
Most items at the faire are vintage or antique, 20 years old or older, and pricing reflects research, sourcing costs, and restoration work. While negotiation is expected and welcome, approach it respectfully. Vendors appreciate customers who demonstrate genuine interest and knowledge. Bundling multiple items from the same dealer often yields better price breaks than haggling over a single piece.
Family-Friendly Features
The Alameda Point Antiques Faire welcomes families with open arms. Children under 12 enjoy free admission with an adult, making this an affordable weekend outing. The variety of merchandise appeals to different ages kids often enjoy discovering vintage toys, while teens appreciate retro fashion and music memorabilia.
Multiple food vendors and trucks ensure everyone stays fed and energized throughout the visit. From coffee and pastries for early morning arrivals to lunch options for those making a day of it, the culinary offerings rival the antique selection in quality and variety.
Important Pet Policy
Please note: The faire is located in a Wildlife Sanctuary, and pets are not allowed per the use permit. Only service dogs are exempt from this rule. Comfort dogs do not qualify for the exemption. This policy protects the sensitive wildlife habitat while ensuring accessibility for those who require service animals.
Instagram-Worthy Spots and Photography
For social media enthusiasts and photography lovers, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire offers countless picture-perfect opportunities:
The Furniture Rows: Colorful antique furniture arranged outdoors against California’s bright blue sky creates stunning compositions, especially during golden hour morning light.
Vintage Market Finds Booth: Known for whimsical arrangements of retro kitchen items that resemble art installations, this booth has become an unofficial photo spot for visitors.
Waterfront Views: The bay views at the edge of the faire provide serene backdrops that beautifully contrast with the bustling vintage marketplace, perfect for reflective shots after intensive shopping.
Architectural Backdrops: The historic Naval Air Station buildings add industrial charm to photos, especially when framed with vintage finds in the foreground.
Active Filming Notice: There is often active filming occurring at this event. By entering, you agree that your image may appear in print, TV, Internet, or motion pictures. Be aware that you might appear in background footage for television shows, documentaries, or promotional materials about the faire.
Nearby Accommodations
Planning an overnight stay allows for a more leisurely pace and the opportunity to explore Alameda beyond the faire. Several excellent hotels serve visitors:
Waterfront Hotel, Alameda offers scenic bay views and convenient proximity to both the faire and Alameda’s downtown attractions. The waterfront location provides peaceful evening strolls after a day of treasure hunting.
Courtyard by Marriott Alameda features modern amenities including comfortable rooms, reliable service, and only a short drive from Alameda Point. The hotel caters well to both leisure travelers and those combining the faire with business travel.
Holiday Inn Express Alameda provides budget-friendly accommodation with all essential amenities, centrally located for exploring Alameda’s restaurants, shops, and attractions before or after the faire.
Extending Your Bay Area Vintage Adventure
The Alameda Point Antiques Faire serves as an excellent anchor for a Bay Area vintage shopping weekend. Consider visiting these nearby markets:
- Oakland Flea Market offers a different vibe with more casual, eclectic finds
- Berkeley Flea Market features local artisans alongside vintage vendors
- San Francisco’s Treasure Island Flea (seasonal) provides stunning city views with your shopping
Combining these markets creates a comprehensive vintage tour of the Bay Area’s thriving secondhand scene.
Becoming a Vendor
For antique dealers and collectors considering selling at the faire, vendor spaces are highly sought after. The faire hosts over 800 dealer booths, creating a competitive but rewarding selling environment. Vendor applications open regularly through the official website, with fees varying based on space size and location within the market. Happy treasure hunting! Looking for the best flea market finds in the Golden State? Browse our ultimate guide to California flea markets to uncover local treasures, vintage deals, and markets worth a road trip.
Selling at Alameda Point provides access to thousands of knowledgeable buyers, many of whom travel specifically for this monthly event. The faire’s reputation for quality and authenticity attracts serious collectors willing to pay fair prices for exceptional merchandise.
FAQs
What time does the Alameda Point Antiques Faire open and close?
The market opens at 6 AM–3 PM every Sunday of the month.
Is there an admission fee to enter the fair?
Yes, admission is $10 per adult, while children under 12 can enter for free.
Can I register as a vendor at the Alameda Point Antiques Faire?
Yes, vendor registration is available through the official vendor site, with details on the application and fees.
Is parking available at the market?
Yes, free onsite parking is available, along with public transit options nearby.
Are pets allowed at the Alameda Point Antiques Faire?
Pets on leashes are generally allowed, but it’s best to check the official website for any event-specific restrictions before attending.
Why the Alameda Point Antiques Faire Remains a Bay Area Treasure
In an era of online shopping and mass-produced décor, the Alameda Point Antiques Faire offers something increasingly rare: authentic human connection through shared appreciation of history and craftsmanship. Each booth represents not just merchandise, but the dealer’s expertise, passion, and often decades of collecting experience. Every item carries a story, from a Victorian-era brooch that traveled across continents to a mid-century lamp that once illuminated a designer’s studio.
Mark the first Sunday of each month on your calendar, bring cash and comfortable shoes, and prepare to discover why thousands of vintage enthusiasts consider the Alameda Point Antiques Faire an essential Bay Area tradition. From serious collectors seeking rare finds to families enjoying a morning adventure, everyone leaves with something special whether it’s a tangible treasure or simply the memory of a beautiful day spent among California’s most extensive collection of authentic antiques and vintage goods.
