The scene in the historic core of DTLA this past Sunday was decidedly more animated thanks to the debut of a brand new trading post, the Downtown Flea.
An impressive 250 vendors from San Diego to San Francisco sold everything from retro wares and furniture to more up-to-the-minute goods like hand-carved iPhone cases, in what is sure to be a revival of a sacred shopping tradition.
Whether an Etsy aficionado, serious bargain hunter, or just a curious browser hoping to run into the Melt food truck, the good turnout and vibrant energy along Spring Street was undeniable and, according to L.A. native Robert McNellis, brought back memories of the more bustling downtown of decades past.
“These street fair-type things are what it needs to keep its momentum,” commented McNellis, who manned a booth full of recycled home decor.
The popular shopping and style site RackedLA posted a roundup of their favorite booths in an online gallery that will surely have you questioning whether there is enough color in your life.
Founder Phillip Dane has high hopes for Downtown Flea, saying in a recent L.A. At Home article that he wants it to be “the flea market for the next generation…for people who want to shop for unique things in a block party atmosphere.” He also added that flea markets are by nature “great social places and recession-proof businesses, whatever your budget”—a sentiment that bodes well with local establishments and residents alike. Oh, and did we mention that there’s a DJ spinning tunes and a hula hoop stand?
The Downtown Flea will take place monthlyuoccur during the last Sunday of each month. It is scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in four open-air parking lots on Spring Street, Broadway and Main Street, between 2nd and 3rd streets. Entry is $5 at 246 S. Spring St.
Photo Above: Racked LA
