Drive in Flea Market's Entertain Shoppers

Photo: Charles Barksdale, File/San Antonio Express News

My first memory of a drive in flea market was in Erie, Pennsylvania at the Pennisula Drive In in the seventies. There were many sellers lined up under the giant movie screens selling their odds and ends from the trunk of their cars. Some would set up tables and others would just lay blankets down and spread their goods out.
As a child, I loved going up and down the aisles surveying all the unique items for sale. Old toys, clothing, books, records, appliances, you name it and it was most likely there ready to be sold at a great price. I recall being surprised at the negotiating process. I didn't know that you could talk the price down and haggle for the best deal.
I guess you could say this was beginning of my love of anything old, used, the joy of the treasure hunt and excitement of finding a great bargain.
Drive in flea markets are said to have started sometime around the 1960's and 1970's. During this time there was a decline in movie goers and owners got creative in finding ways to bring in crowds and increase revenue. Most drive in flea markets were free to shoppers, while the vendors paid a set price for their spot.
One of the largest drive in flea markets in the world is The Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop. It began the flea market in 1966 and in return helped boost the expansion of the drive in theater. Today, it boasts, not only being the largest flea market, but also operates its very own big top circus that performs 6 days a week.
There are still numerous drive in flea markets scattered across the United States today.
I believe this is the most nostalgic way to thrift shop. Where else can you soak up the sun, get some kettle corn, a hot dog or a milkshake while you shop and then stick around until dark and enjoy a classic drive in show?

Looking for that perfect retro gift? Check out oldsoulretro.com for retro vintage fashions, home decor and more.

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Rachel Davies Google+ October 26, 2012

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Posted by: Rachel Davies @ Old Soul Retro

As far back as I can remember I have always had an interest in anything retro/vintage. My parents were collectors. I recall tagging along with them to thrift stores, estate sales, garage sales and even a few dusty old barn sales. It became a sort of treasure hunt to me. There is something about the feeling of finding that long lost special piece and bringing it back to life. It wasn't long before I became addicted and began my own collections. Antique rhinestone jewelry, baseball cards, recipes, kitchen gadgets, vinyl records, vintage magazines,books, sewing patterns and more. By adulthood, I began sewing projects from those vintage patterns, dressing in vintage clothing and styling my hair in "Victory Rolls". Through the years Retro/Vintage has become an obsession. I love the age of innocence back then. Men were gentlemen and women were ladies. Music was rich and meaningful. Things were made to last and people took pride in what they did. Perhaps, I am just an "Old Soul" but Retro/Vintage seems to spark a memory of years gone by. Each piece holds a story....a feeling. It is my privilege to share my passion with you.