Indiana’s Fabulous Summer Markets

The tulips are blooming, Spring is in the air and it’s time to hit the road. Not sure where to go? Let me help.
The Southside Vintage Marketplace is held the first Saturday of June, August and October. Hosted by the Southport Antique Mall, and set up in their east parking lot, the market offers an array of vintage items, handmade goods, one-of-a-kind art, and repurposed treasures. Plenty of free parking is available and there is no admission charge. Food trucks are available for lunch plus you have the bonus of checking out wares of the 200+ dealers that comprise The Southport Antique Mall. Give them a LIKE on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheSouthsideVintageMarketplace for full information on these and there other summer pop-up shows.
According to the organizers of the Indie Arts and Vintage Marketplace, their goal is “to enhance the experience of living as a more responsible consumer.” And, that they do! Among their offerings I found vintage, retro, up-cycled, recycled, and just plain great junk! There is plenty of food from area eateries and a smattering of local artists displaying their work. They will kick off their 2018 season May 28th at Clay Terrace in Carmel, Indiana from 10-5. For a full schedule of summer shows and special events visit them online at www.indyartsvintage.com.
Now in its third year, the Boone County Flea Market in Lebanon is filled with great finds from the country. From traditional farm tools to the hottest trends in galvanized and Farm Fresh decor, this market is well worth the drive. Looking for a primitive blanket chest or step-back cupboard? This is the show for you. Vendors set up the first Saturday of each month, now through October, at the Boone County Fairgrounds just south of Lebanon off of Interstate 65. Visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Boone-County-Flea-Market for information on this season’s shows.
The Johnson County Antique Market, held the second Saturday of each month at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, has long been recognized as one of the top outdoor markets in Indiana. This upscale sale featuring primitives, antique furniture, jewelry, glass, linens, tools, toys, and advertising offered by vendors from Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. Admission is $3 at the door and there is no charge for children 18 and under. Thinking of joining their growing list of vendors? Contact them on the Web at jcantiquemarket.com. While you are in the area take the opportunity to visit the wonderful shops in downtown Franklin.
Shipshewana’s Auction and Antique Market has grown from a small one family business in 1922 into the Midwest’s largest flea market for three reasons: quality, quantity and variety. If you can’t find a treasure here, then you just aren’t trying! Every Tuesday and Wednesday, May through October, over 900 dealers and vendors offer great country fresh antiques, handcrafted furniture, and fresh produce. A parking fee of $3 per vehicle includes the cost of admission to this market which runs from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. One of the nicest features is their scooter rental which allows you to easily maneuver the grounds and save you energy for bartering with the vendors. Their web site is www.tradingplaceamerica.com/midwests-largest-flea-market.
Well there you have it — great food, tons of treasures and Indiana hospitality at it’s best! So grab your coffee, slip on your comfortable shoes and let’s go pickin’! Until next time . . . Linda

Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com