So, you’re looking for cool vintage pieces, decorative home goods, and maybe hoping to discover up and coming skin, gardening and fashion brands…well, then you’ve got to head out to one of LA’s most famous flea markets, Melrose Trading Post. It’s a bomb spot to soak up some rays and get your flea market fix. Plus, you can literally make a whole day out of this visit. They’ve got yummy food, live entertainment and you’ll never know who you’ll see because almost everyone in LA comes here (yeah, it’s a not so secret hidden gem, but, we still love it). So here’s what you need to know about the Melrose Trading Post.
What is the Melrose Trading Post?
Address: 7850 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
First things first- let’s talk about what the Melrose Trading Post is. It’s a weekly flea market that takes place every Sunday at Fairfax High School in Los Angeles. This market is not like any other market you’ve been to before. It has a variety of vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and accessories to handmade crafts and furniture. Yup, more than likely, you’re gonna find that vintage chair for that cozy reading spot.
Pro-Tip: Make sure to get cash before going to the Trading Post, a lot of vendors may only accept cash. Paying in cash means it’s free right? We like to think so!
Where to Park?
Parking around the Melrose Trading Post can be a bit tricky, but there are a few options to think about. First, there is limited parking available at Fairfax High School, where the market is located. However, this parking lot fills up quickly and can be quite expensive, so it’s best to arrive early if you plan on parking there. If you’re looking for a more affordable parking option, there are several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the market. These parking options typically range from $5-$20 for the day. But, if you’re up for a hot girl walk, you can also park a few blocks away from the market in areas with unrestricted street parking. This option may require a bit more effort,(we know) but it’s a great way to save money on parking.
Pro-tip: Arrive early and find street parking on Fairfax and Melrose (you’ll thank us later).
Live Music Performances
Live music is definitely one of the highlights of the Melrose Trading Post. There are several stages set up throughout the market featuring a variety of local musicians and performers. The music ranges from indie and rock to jazz and blues, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The live music typically starts around midday and is pumping for the rest of the day. Check out the performance schedule so you don’t miss your favorite artists. Remember, each week offers a new and exciting lineup, so you never know who you might discover!
The Food
With so many amazing options to choose from, it can be hard to decide what to try first. As we mentioned before, the market features a variety of food vendors offering everything on the spot from classic American fare to international cuisine. Some of the most popular food options include gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, handcrafted burgers, artisanal pizzas, fresh tacos, and authentic Mediterranean dishes like falafel and hummus. But the foodie fun doesn’t stop there! The Melrose Trading Post also has a great selection of sweet treats, including homemade baked goods, artisanal ice cream, and even a donut stand. And, if you’re in the mood for a refreshing drink, you can find everything from freshly squeezed lemonade to cold brew coffee. There’s so many options, even for the pickiest of eaters. It’s worth noting that the food vendors at the Melrose Trading Post are constantly changing, so each week offers a new and exciting lineup. Talk about options…yes please!
Best Time to Go
If you’re looking to beat the crowds and score the best deals, it’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning when the market opens at 9:00am. This is when the vendors are just setting up, and you’ll have first dibs on all the merchandise before the crowds arrive. If you’re more interested in soaking up the lively atmosphere and enjoying the live music and food scene, it’s best to arrive later in the morning or early afternoon when the market is in full swing. Just an FYI, even though this is when the market is at its busiest, you’ll definitely get the vibe that it’s known for. Ultimately, the best time to go to the Melrose Trading Post is whenever works best for you!
Admission
The market is open every Sunday from 9am to 5pm, rain or shine. There is a $5 admission fee to get in, but it’s totally worth it. Plus, the admission fee goes towards supporting the Fairfax High School community. Admission for children 12 years old or younger is free – no tickets needed. You can also buy tickets on their website to skip the lines here. Plus, all proceeds go to a non-profit organization, the Greenway Arts Alliance. We love that
How to Become a Vendor
If you’re interested in becoming a vendor at the Melrose Trading Post, you’re in luck! The market is always looking for new and exciting vendors to join in on the fun. To become a vendor, you’ll need to fill out an application form, which you can find on the Melrose Trading Post website. Once you’ve submitted your application, the market’s management team will review it and get back to you with a response. If your application is accepted, you’ll need to pay a vendor fee to get up and running. It’s worth noting that the vendor selection process at the Melrose Trading Post is competitive but who isn’t always up for a challenge?
Socializing & Networking
One of the best things about the Melrose Trading Post is the connections you can make with the vendors and other shoppers. It’s a great place to meet like-minded people, share your passions, and learn about new and exciting things. As a vendor, you have the opportunity to connect with other vendors and build relationships that can help grow your business. As a shopper, you can connect with the vendors and learn about the stories behind their products. And who knows, you might just make some new friends along the way. Shopping at the Melrose Trading Post, you’re not just supporting small businesses – you’re also helping to support education and the arts in the community. A win-win in our book.
The Know Before You Go
If you’re planning to make a visit to the Melrose Trading Post, there are a few things you should consider. First up, you’ll be doing a lot of walking. I mean, there are over 200 vendors so comfortable shoes that you can walk in for several hours are a must. The market is held outdoors, so it’s important to protect yourself from the sun. Bring sunscreen and a hat to stay cool and prevent sunburn (and wrinkles of course). Many vendors don’t provide bags, so it’s a good idea to bring your own reusable shopping bags. Finally, the Melrose Trading Post is full of photo-worthy spots! From the colorful stalls to the vibrant street art, so be sure to charge up the smartphone to capture everything.
Now that you’ve explored this flea market, check out some of the other Best Flea Markets in LA!
