For more than five decades, the second Sunday of the month has drawn treasure seekers, interior designers and the merely curious to the sprawling parking lots that ring the Rose Bowl. On Sunday, July 12, the tradition continues as the Rose Bowl Flea Market spreads more than 2,500 vendors across the stadium grounds in Pasadena, offering everything from museum-worthy antiques to last season’s denim.
Longtime shoppers know the market by its color-coded geography: the Orange section for vintage furniture, paintings and rugs; the White section for clothing; the Purple section for handmade jewelry and gems. Concession stands dot the grounds, and children under 12 enter free with a ticketed adult.
New this year, general admission tickets can be purchased online in advance, letting buyers avoid the box-office lines that once formed before dawn. Attendees may enter at the time printed on their ticket — as early as 5 a.m. for early admission or 9 a.m. for general admission. No one will be admitted after 3 p.m., though shoppers already inside may browse until 4:30 p.m.
The market has run rain or shine since 1968, when R.G. Canning and a partner launched it on the theory that the stadium’s acres of asphalt could earn their keep between football games. It has since grown into a monthly draw of roughly 20,000 buyers, earning the nickname “Flea Market of the Stars.” Tickets are sold online only; none are available at the gate. Shoppers should check in at Gate A with a QR code ready.
The Rose Bowl Flea Market will run on Sunday, July 12, with entry from 5 a.m. for early admission and 9 a.m. for general admission; no entry after 3 p.m., with shopping until 4:30 p.m. Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 577-3100 or visit rgcshows.com. Tickets: general admission $15, early admission $22, both online; children under 12 free with an adult.
