The Charming Out Of The Way Flea Market In Nebraska You Won’t Soon Forget
Bargain lovers and treasure hunters, mark your calendars. The tiny town of Brownville rolls out the red carpet twice a year to welcome vendors and shoppers from all over the state – and well beyond – at its huge flea market.
For most of the year, Brownville - in the southeastern corner of the state - is one of the tiniest villages in Nebraska. Its population is around 130, and it's the very definition of a sleepy little town.
The outdoor market stretches from one end of the village to the other. You can expect to find around 260 vendors at the flea market, and if you've ever seen the size of Brownville you'll know how remarkable that is.
Folks come down by the carload and even by the busload to pore through all of the unique finds. The flea market has been an important part of the town since 1957, and there are some shoppers and vendors who have been coming here for decades.
You can find just about anything and everything at this unique market. Antiques and collectibles are some of the most popular items, but you can also find plenty of new items.
Art, toys, tools, clothing, jewelry, decor, and furniture are just some of the treasures you'll discover along the rows of vendors. Allow plenty of time to see it all; it will likely take you all day to work your way up one side and down the other.
You'll definitely work up an appetite doing all of that shopping, so stop by one of the food vendors for a quick on-the-go snack or lunch. Be sure to try the kettle corn - it's made right in front of you and it's some of the best you'll ever taste.
As you walk around, you'll likely hear the sweet sounds of live entertainment. You may just feel like dancing as you peruse all of the vendors' wares and pick out your new treasures.
There is no entry fee to attend the market as a shopper. There's plenty of free parking, but unless you're extremely lucky you will have to walk a fair distance to get to the vendors. Wear comfy shoes and sunscreen to prepare for your day full of shopping!
In 2019, the flea market dates are May 25-27 and September 28-29. Learn more about visiting Brownville and attending the market – and even how to register as a vendor – right here.
Brownville and the surrounding area are absolutely beautiful, and you should visit to see for yourself. If you book early, you may even be able to stay in the state’s only floating resort.
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
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