While in Los Angeles this past weekend, my daughter, Alexandra suggested that we go to the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena. Yes! It’s a great way to score unique finds that add character and charm to your home. This might give you ideas for what to look for at a flea market near you.
The day before we went to the flea market, I toured some cool SoCal shops that curate a cool mix of new and vintage pieces (more on that next Sunday). The prices are much higher than you would find at a flea market or estate sale (although that’s where they probably come from). It’s a good way to get inspiration.
The Rose Bowl flea market is held on the second Sunday of each month. We bought the early entrance tickets on line that let’s you before general admission at 9 am. We got there around 7:30 am and it was so nice without the crowds that came later.
Rose Bowl Flea Market
Most of the vendors accept Venmo or Zelle and of course, cash. You can bargain but if the price is already really low, don’t bother.
Vintage Rugs
There were lots of vendors with beautiful vintage rugs if you are in the market.
African Textiles
I was interested in getting an African indigo cloth to cover the seat of the white bench that I added to my recent closet makeover.
African Beads
My daughter bought a trio of glass beads in shades of green to go with her sofa refresh.
Mid-Century Furniture and Dishes
These chairs were gone by the time the gates opened to the general public, but Alexandra did manage to score some cool earthenware mugs as well as embellished sunglasses (I didn’t get photos).
Vintage Decor Accents
I bought the aqua enameled pitcher. Having little room in my suitcase prevented me from buying much more.
Indian Cotton Caftans
It was a chilly morning but I could envision feeling cool in Florida in a breezy caftan like these… so I bought one!
African Straw Hats And Basket
Alexandra bought a straw hat with a leather strap.
Jewelry With Vintage French Medals
You can tell that I just rolled out of bed. I bought a sweet necklace.
Overall, our trip to the Rose Bowl Flea Market was a great success, filling us with inspiration. It was especially fun to have the time with my daughter. Alexandra was smiling and genuinely interested in the vendors and learning the background of their goods. I felt like she was making a beautiful day a bit more lovely for all of us.
From vintage rugs to mid-century furniture, to unique decor accents, our haul reflects our love for timeless design and one-of-a-kind finds.
You may also like GREAT Inexpensive Flea Market Items.
cindy says
How do you think the rose bowl compares to Alameda! I would love to go sometime but I don’t think I could drag Steve!!
Rosemary Davis says
What a fun day! It has been so long since I’ve visited a flea market. I am putting it on my list of things to do.
Rosemary
Mary Ann Pickett says
It IS fun, Rosemary.
Gail says
What a fun day for you and Alexandra and the weather looked perfect. You scored some great finds that will be wonderful additions to your beautiful home.
Pat Godek says
I love flea markets and this one looks great! Looked like a fun day with your daughter. You have to take pics modeling the caftan. Thanks for sharing.
Pat in Chicago
Katherine says
Hi Mary Ann,
What a wonderful day for you both to share together. It looks like you both found some special items. Your daughter’s straw hat has lots of character and is so cool looking.
Mary Ann Pickett says
It’s a little small, Katherine. It looks cute on little Louisa too 🙂
Deanna says
Sounds like a lovely time with your daughter. Love the aqua enameled pitcher you bought. Can’t wait to see you model the caftan.
Martha Foss says
I love the Rose Bowl flea market! When I lived in the Bay Area, we would take the first Burbank flight down in the morning, and get a rental car and go over and spend the day! Can I tell you what it’s like being the last person on a flight caring a marble bust, an antique painting, and a breakable pitcher? Luckily, I have some insider knowledge so my Flight Attendant friends helped me stow them!! interestingly, since I’ve lived down here I have not been… I think when I moved, I unpacked so many treasures that I had packed away. I made myself use my own flea market finds that I’ve been collecting for years, instead of buying some new ones!!
Mary Ann Pickett says
That sounds amazing, Martha. Sounds like me carrying back two wicker chairs on the metro in Paris!
Linda Henderson says
Loved this post! I have been to the Rose Bowl Flea Market once but I have always wanted to go back. Thank you for the inspiration.
Mary Ann Pickett says
Time to go next month, Linda!
Brenda says
The other cool thing about buying treasures (as opposed to a shop online from the convenience of your home) is that you will have the memory of a great day spent with your daughter every time you look at your purchase. I really think that is what makes the object much more meaningful and you have a little story to tell. When there is a story behind it, it truly makes a home more personal and collected.
Mary Ann Pickett says
Yes, Brenda…and the same goes for my daughter remembering our day. I hope we can do it again. We got a lot of steps in, too!
Cheryl P says
I haven’t been to the Rose Bowl flea market in years, but have gotten some lovely items in the past. Makes for a great Sunday outing, lots of fun! Glad you had the time with your daughter!
Mary Ann Pickett says
Thanks, Cheryl. I think it’s fun to go even if you dont buy anything.