As the weather warms up and the sunshine shines in Summerville, many who were sequestered to social distancing for the past few springs are dying to get out and do things that we all missed so much. If you are a flea market antique peruser fan, then you are in luck. Summerville is an excellent place to shop for shabby chic, or just plain shabby, because, after all, one woman’s trash is literally another one’s treasure in the treasured South! These are four markets not to miss.
The Coastal Carolina Flea Market
Celebrating more than three decades and running in the Summerville area, the Coastal Carolina Flea Market started way back in 1981 and has been going strong ever since. It is touted as one of the original and only true “flea markets” in the area with over 1000 booths and vendors. It isn’t just people from the area who come on Saturdays and Sundays to sift through vintage goods, people come from all over South Carolina and beyond to shop the unique fare and see what will show up. It spans over 47 acres and has two restaurants to feed hungry antique hunters. If you are looking for a good old-fashioned flea market, this one might actually come with a flea or two to-go.
Summerville Farmers Market
Located in Downtown Summerville is our community favorite held every Saturday, April – December from 8:00 to 1:00. Although it isn’t officially a flea market, you can find a little bit of the South to put in your mouth. Local vendors bring their best produce, meats, baked goods, seafood, and so much more. You can also enjoy live music streaming from the Market Cafe, which opens at 10 am sharp. It is a rain or shine event where you can also stroll through unique shops and other local artisan goods in the downtown area. It is definitely a MUST this summer as we return to what we love the most post-COVID.
Trade Day Flea Market
Trade Day Flea Market has been a tradition located just two miles north of the Downtown Center of Summerville for as long as time has been recorded. It is a place that advertises that you can find “pretty much anything that you need”. A community favorite in Summerville, it is where neighbors get to greet and hang out with one another while shopping for all of their vintage needs. Bartering is not only allowed; it is welcomed and the only form of currency accepted at Trade Day. Need a can of soup, you can find it. Need to find an old coin, probably there. The best time you can have without the need for money is still alive and kicking in Downtown Summerville. Trade Day starts at 5:00 am, and the early bird really does get the worm and everything else their heart desires.
Historic Charleston City Market
The Historic Charleston City Market is located right outside of Summerville, in the downtown area of Charleston. It is the original market from when Charleston had cobble streets and a central market where the community traded and sold goods. It still exists in the same area today with all the traditions finely preserved. At the Market, you can find local artisan treasures, goods, food, and if you are lucky, local musicians who keep the crowds entertained. The market is open daily from 9:30 to 6:00, so spend the day and then hit local new restaurants like Locals Raw Bar, the the Blu Oyster (on James Island), try Mr. Narwhals Magical SnoCones, or stop in Zeppelin’s Pizza (on James or Johns Island) on the way back home. It is a perfect way to spend a day and evening with friends and family.
Spring and summer are for nothing if not for antiquing! While the world returns from the pandemic and social distancing to getting out and socializing, now is your time! Pick which market speaks to you and hit the open road. Whether you are a Summerville resident, looking to relocate, or just have an adventurous soul, check out all that Summerville has to offer. If you do decide to make Summerville your home, make sure that you call Sea Turtle Properties. We are the real estate agency in Summerville that not only has the insider outlook; we have a passion for all things Summerville. Contact us today!