There’s nothing quite like the experience of a flea market: The thrill of discovering a long-forgotten record from your childhood, a just-right piece of furniture for your dining room, or something entirely unexpected. The friendly banter that occurs while haggling over the price. The nostalgic smell of an old baseball card or the sound of a typewriter. The fun of physically searching for something that sparks your excitement rather than simply clicking “buy” on a website.
Circle Drive-In Flea Fair: A Tradition Since 1975
The folks behind the Circle Drive-In Flea Fair get it. Since 1975, this giant flea market — the largest in Northeastern Pennsylvania — has drawn thrifters, collectors, and bargain hunters to the Circle Drive-In in Dickson City to peruse antiques, collectibles, handmade crafts, previously loved equipment, jewelry, and more from hundreds of vendors. And there’s fresh produce and plants to boot!
The fair is an annual tradition for many residents (as is catching a flick at the Circle Drive-In Theatre, which has been in operation since 1949). Treasure hunters spend their Sunday mornings wandering the aisles and weaving around the tables and stacks to find the item that catches their eye. Take a break at the concession stand, food trucks, or local restaurant stands, where shoppers can refuel with sandwiches, nachos, ice cream cones, and numerous other delicious bites before returning to their treasure hunts.
What will you uncover?
The Circle Drive-In Flea Fair is held every Sunday from mid-March to mid-November, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., with select pop-up Saturdays (weather permitting). Entry is $1 per car.
Shop — Then Shop Some More
Don’t limit your well-trained, bargain-spotting eye to the Circle Drive-In event, though. There are plenty of other consignment shops in Scranton, as well as antique stores and thrift shops spread throughout Lackawanna County, that are worth your time.
Local favorites for designer labels at affordable prices include Esther’s Consignment Boutique (handbags are a big draw here, as is the children’s department) and Changes Luxury Consignment. Looking to outfit your home with vintage finds, kitschy decor, or handmade art? You can always find the perfect something at Miriam’s Furniture Consignment and On&On, which showcases wares from more than 50 artists and vendors. D&D’s Collectables is a reliable stop for those interested in rare coins, trading cards, vintage magazines, and comic books.
