On the second Sunday of each month, Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Stadium transforms into the Rose Bowl Flea Market, a sprawling open-air shopping destination unlike any other. Around 20,000 visitors typically turn out to explore more than 2,500 vendors offering antiques, vintage fashion, furniture, jewelry, collectibles, memorabilia, and countless unexpected finds.
The market is a favorite among serious collectors and casual browsers alike, thanks to its classic treasure-hunt atmosphere. And while you’re scanning the stalls, you may even spot a familiar face: Angelina Jolie, Cameron Diaz, and Christian Louboutin have all reportedly shopped here.
How to shop the Rose Bowl Flea Market
Treat a visit like an endurance event. With thousands of booths and plenty of ground to cover, a little preparation goes a long way.
- Know the color-coded layout: Orange marks antique vendors; white is for vintage clothing and accessories; purple features arts, crafts, and handmade goods; and blue, pink, and red sections focus on newer and contemporary merchandise.
- Get there early: The most committed shoppers arrive between 5 and 7 a.m. to get first access to the best pieces.
- Come prepared for the weather: Bring layers, sun protection, a hat, water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. Dressing rooms are limited, so wear an outfit that makes it easy to try clothing on over what you already have.
- Pack cash and bags: Although many vendors take cards, cash—especially small bills—can make bargaining easier. Tote bags are also useful for carrying smaller purchases.
- Shop furniture first: Larger items tend to sell quickly. If furniture is your priority, head there early and bring a tape measure to confirm it will fit in your vehicle. The market does not provide shopping carts, so plan how you’ll transport larger finds back to the parking lot.
- Inspect before you buy: Most sales are final, so look over each item carefully before handing over payment.
A Pasadena tradition since 1968
The Rose Bowl Flea Market launched in 1968 as an effort to generate revenue for Pasadena. R.G. Canning and Bill Tunnel created the event by combining their interest in antiques with their experience putting on car shows. Its first gathering drew about 12,000 people and 200 vendors—a promising start for what would become a major monthly institution.
Over the decades, the market has expanded into one of the world’s best-known flea markets. The Rose Bowl’s enormous setting and the event’s emphasis on antiques helped establish its reputation as one of L.A. County’s major social and cultural events, while its ever-changing selection continues to attract tourists, collectors, designers, and locals.
Visiting the market
📍 Location: Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, CA 91103
📅 When: Second Sunday of every month, rain or shine
⏰ Hours: Early Bird entry runs from 5–8:45 a.m.; general admission begins at 9 a.m. Shoppers must enter by 3 p.m., though the event continues until 4:30 p.m. and vendors may begin packing up earlier.
🎟️ Tickets: Purchase online in advance; tickets are not sold at the stadium. Early Bird admission is $23.21, while general admission is $15.83.
🚗 Parking: Free, but it fills quickly. Expect a potentially long walk from your car to the entrance.
🌐 Website: Rose Bowl Flea Market
