The PCC Flea Market, hosted by Pasadena City College, stands as one of Southern California’s most cherished and vibrant monthly events. Since its establishment as a community institution, this remarkable marketplace has become a pilgrimage destination for collectors, vintage enthusiasts, bargain hunters, and treasure seekers from across the region. Whether you’re a seasoned collector hunting for rare vinyl or a casual shopper searching for unique home décor, the PCC Flea Market offers an unparalleled experience that blends commerce, community, and discovery.
With over 400 vendors displaying an eclectic and diverse collection of merchandise across multiple lots, the PCC Flea Market has earned its reputation as one of the most dynamic shopping destinations in the area. The atmosphere is electric yet welcoming, creating a sense of camaraderie among visitors who share a passion for finding hidden gems and timeless treasures.
Essential Information at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1570 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106 |
| Phone | (626) 585-7906 |
| Schedule | First Sunday of every month (except January) |
| Hours | Typically 8 AM – 4 PM on event days |
| Admission | Completely Free |
| Parking | Lot 5 off Bonnie Avenue – $2 per vehicle |
| Vendors | 400+ diverse merchants |
| Specialty | Vinyl records (50+ vendors), antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing |
Operating Hours During the Week
The Pasadena City College campus maintains regular hours throughout the week for various college activities:
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9 AM – 4 PM |
| Tuesday | 9 AM – 4 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM – 4 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM – 4 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM – 4 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Flea Market Days | First Sunday of the Month – Check locally for exact hours |
Note: Please verify current flea market operating hours by calling (626) 585-7906 or visiting the official Pasadena City College website.
PCC Flea Market photos
Getting There & Parking
Convenient Parking Options
One of the PCC Flea Market’s greatest advantages is its affordable and accessible parking. Lot 5, located conveniently off Bonnie Avenue, offers parking for just $2 per vehicle, making it an economical choice for visitors. The spacious parking areas can accommodate the substantial crowds that gather on flea market days, though arriving early is still recommended to secure the best spots near vendor areas.
For those who prefer not to drive, Pasadena City College is exceptionally well-connected by public transportation. The campus is easily accessible via multiple bus lines and proximity to the Metro Gold Line, making it simple for visitors from across Los Angeles County to attend without a personal vehicle. This accessibility has made the flea market a truly inclusive community event.
Weather Considerations
Most vendor areas throughout the market are covered, providing protection from Southern California’s unpredictable weather. Whether the day brings rare rain or intense sun, shoppers can browse comfortably knowing they have shelter while exploring the vast selection of merchandise.
The Vendors & Merchandise
A World of Treasures Awaits
The PCC Flea Market’s strength lies in its remarkable diversity of vendors and merchandise. With over 400 merchants setting up shop each month, the variety is nearly limitless. Here’s what you can expect to find:
Antiques & Collectibles From Victorian-era furniture to mid-century modern pieces, antique dealers bring museum-quality items and everyday treasures. Collectible jewelry booths feature everything from vintage costume pieces to estate finds, attracting both seasoned collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
Vinyl Records & Music The market’s most celebrated specialty is its dedicated vinyl record section. Over 50 record vendors showcase extensive collections spanning multiple genres, eras, and formats. Located on the 4th floor ramp of the Del Mar Boulevard parking structure (Lot 4), this vinyl haven draws audiophiles, DJs, and music lovers who spend hours digging through crates searching for that elusive album.
Vintage Clothing & Fashion Vintage clothing racks throughout the market attract fashion stylists, costume designers, and vintage fashion devotees. From retro band tees to designer pieces from decades past, the clothing selection reflects authentic fashion history and contemporary vintage trends.
Home Décor & Furnishings Whether you’re furnishing an entire room or adding statement pieces to existing spaces, the home goods section offers vintage lamps, decorative accessories, art, mirrors, and unique furnishings that add character to any home.
Jewelry, Accessories & More Beyond antiques and clothing, vendors offer jewelry, watches, accessories, collectible items, books, toys, and countless other categories that make treasure hunting endlessly rewarding.
The Legendary Long-Time Vendors
What truly distinguishes the PCC Flea Market is its community of established vendors who have become beloved fixtures. Many stalls are operated by individuals and families who have been part of the market for years, developing loyal followings and reputations for quality merchandise and fair dealing. These seasoned vendors often have the best stories, the most carefully curated collections, and insider knowledge about finding specific items.
Planning Your Visit: Tips for Success
Arrive Early for the Best Selection
The early birds truly do get the worms at the PCC Flea Market. Arriving at opening time or shortly thereafter gives you first pick at newly displayed merchandise and allows you to browse without overwhelming crowds. Popular items, especially in the vinyl section, move quickly, so timing your visit for the start of the day significantly increases the likelihood of finding those special treasures you’re seeking.
Bring Cash – It’s King Here
While some vendors have adapted to modern payment methods, cash remains the preferred and most universally accepted payment method at the market. Many established vendors, particularly long-time dealers, may offer better prices for cash purchases or operate cash-only booths. Arriving with sufficient cash ensures you never miss an opportunity due to payment limitations.
Comfortable Shoes Are Non-Negotiable
The PCC Flea Market spans multiple parking lots and vendor areas, requiring substantial walking. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes that can handle several hours of exploration. Plan your next outing across California Flea Markets. You’ll be weaving through vendor rows, climbing up and down the parking structure ramps (especially to reach the vinyl section), and navigating crowds – comfortable footwear makes this experience enjoyable rather than exhausting.
Stay Hydrated & Check the Weather
Southern California’s weather can be deceptive. Even on days that start cool, the sun intensifies as the day progresses. Bring water or plan to purchase beverages at the campus. Check the weather forecast before visiting and dress in layers, as the covered vendor areas can feel different from open spaces. Sun protection, including sunscreen and hats, is recommended even on cloudy days.
Explore Thoroughly & Take Your Time
Some of the best treasures at the PCC Flea Market are tucked away in less-trafficked corners or discovered through patient exploration. Resist the urge to rush through the market. Spend time in sections that interest you most. Chat with vendors about their merchandise many have fascinating stories and can direct you to items matching specific interests.
Lodging for Out-of-Town Visitors
For collectors and enthusiasts traveling from outside Pasadena, the area offers convenient accommodation options. Several hotels are located within a short drive of the campus, ranging from budget-friendly motels perfect for weekend trips to boutique-style hotels offering more upscale amenities. This accessibility makes it easy to plan a full weekend adventure around the flea market, exploring other Pasadena attractions like the Rose Bowl Flea Market, Huntington Library, Colorado Boulevard’s shops and restaurants, and the famous Pasadena landmarks.
Instagram-Worthy Moments
The PCC Flea Market is as visually captivating as it is commercially rich. Every corner offers photo opportunities: colorful antique displays stacked with nostalgic treasures, elegant vintage clothing racks draped with timeless pieces, the bustling energy of the vinyl record section, and the backdrop of Pasadena City College’s architecture. Visitors regularly capture their unique finds and the market’s vibrant atmosphere, creating a visual record of their discoveries. These Instagram moments help preserve the market’s community spirit and inspire others to visit.
Why the PCC Flea Market Deserves a Place on Your Calendar
More Than Just Shopping
The PCC Flea Market transcends the typical commercial transaction. It’s a monthly tradition that has woven itself into Pasadena’s cultural fabric. For many regular attendees, the market represents connection to the past, appreciation for craftsmanship, and the simple joy of discovery. It’s a place where strangers become friends bonded by shared interests, where collectors share tips about finding rare items, and where the thrill of finding an unexpected treasure never grows old.
Something for Everyone
Whether you’re a serious collector seeking museum-quality antiques, a vinyl enthusiast hunting for specific albums, a fashion-forward individual building a vintage wardrobe, a home decorator searching for unique furnishings, or simply a curious browser enjoying the atmosphere, the PCC Flea Market delivers. Its diversity ensures that each visit offers something new, even for frequent attendees who’ve been coming for years.
Community & Authenticity
In an era of increasingly homogenized shopping experiences, the PCC Flea Market maintains its authenticity and community spirit. Vendors aren’t corporate representatives but passionate individuals and families who genuinely care about their merchandise and their customers. This authenticity creates an atmosphere that’s genuinely welcoming and human-centered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the PCC Flea Market held?
A: The first Sunday of every month, except January. Verify dates by calling (626) 585-7906.
Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, entry is completely free for all visitors.
Q: What’s the parking situation?
A: Parking is available in Lot 5 off Bonnie Avenue for $2 per vehicle.
Q: What types of items are sold?
A: Antiques, collectibles, vinyl records, vintage clothing, jewelry, furniture, home décor, books, and countless other categories.
Q: Where are the vinyl records located?
A: Over 50 record vendors operate in the Lot 4 section, specifically on the 4th floor ramp of the Del Mar Boulevard parking structure.
Q: Can I use public transportation?
A: Yes, Pasadena City College is accessible via multiple bus lines and the Metro Gold Line.
Q: Do all vendors accept credit cards?
A: No, cash is the most reliable payment method, though some vendors may accept cards.
Q: How much time should I plan to spend?
A: Plan for at least 3-4 hours to adequately explore the market, though many enthusiasts spend the entire day.
Q: Is the market accessible for people with mobility challenges?
A: Most vendor areas are covered and relatively flat, though the parking structure ramp for vinyl records may present challenges. Call ahead to discuss accessibility needs.
Q: Are there food vendors at the market?
A: Typically, yes, though options vary. Arriving with snacks and water is still recommended.
Planning Your Pasadena Flea Market Weekend
The PCC Flea Market integrates beautifully into a broader Pasadena shopping and cultural experience. Consider pairing your visit with these complementary destinations:
Rose Bowl Flea Market Another Southern California flea market favorite, typically held the second Sunday of each month, offering a different vendor mix and merchandise selection.
Melrose Flea Market – LA Sundays A dynamic weekly option in central Los Angeles for those seeking flea market experiences on other days of the month.
Local Pasadena Attractions Explore the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, browse the shops and restaurants along Colorado Boulevard, visit historic Pasadena landmarks, or catch a show at one of the area’s cultural venues.
Final Thoughts
The PCC Flea Market represents something increasingly rare in contemporary retail: a genuine, community-driven marketplace where commerce, culture, and human connection converge. Whether you’re seeking a specific treasure or simply embracing the spirit of discovery, this monthly event delivers an authentic experience that keeps collectors, vintage enthusiasts, and casual browsers returning month after month.
From the dedicated vinyl hunters in Lot 4 to the fashion stylists discovering vintage gems, from the antique furniture specialists to the casual shoppers hunting for bargains, everyone finds their place in this vibrant marketplace. The PCC Flea Market isn’t just about acquiring objects it’s about connecting with history, supporting local vendors, participating in community tradition, and experiencing the unique thrill of discovering something unexpected.
Plan Your Pasadena Flea Weekend:
Rose Bowl Flea Market Schedule
Melrose Flea Market – LA Sundays
Plan your visit for the first Sunday of the month and immerse yourself in the lively, eclectic atmosphere that has made the PCC Flea Market a Southern California institution. Bring comfortable shoes, cash, and an open mind. You never know what treasures await in the stalls and corners of this beloved marketplace.
