8 Things You Should Know About the Shipshewana Flea Market

By Anna Camburn

Make the most of your visit to the Shipshewana Flea Market by reading these tips about hours, vendors, lodging and amish food!

1. Flea Market Hours

The Shipshewana Flea Market is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from May to September. The mid-week hours add to the uniqueness of the seasonal flea market. Can’t make it during the week? It is also open for holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day.

2. New Weekend Dates

For the first time ever, the Flea Market will be open on two weekends this year! Bring your four-legged friend June 14-15 for “Dog Days” or plan on visiting for “Mother/Daughter Days” August 16-17. Special activities come with each of those days, but make sure to check out the special hours here.

3. Vendors, Vendors, and More Vendors!

There are over 700 booths. With that many vendors, you are sure to find something you like. Be sure to wear your walking shoes!

4. Trading Place App

You can search for products ahead of time. Download Shipshewana Trading Place’s free mobile app to save your favorites, or pick up a print directory when you arrive.

5. New Farmer’s Market

New for this year, check out the Farmer’s Market area within the Flea Market. Located right in the center of all the action, you’re sure to run into fresh, local produce while shopping for other goodies.

6. Food Courts

There is amazing food. Be sure to visit one of the food courts on site for sandwiches, drinks, Nelson’s famous chicken, and Pit-tatoes. There are also lots of food vendors to visit where you can snack on food such as homemade ice cream, giant cinnamon rolls, kettle korn, soft pretzels, and smoothies.

7. Giveaways

There are giveaways happening every hour during the market day! Sign up at the Information Booth located at the Farmer’s Market to win a free Shipshewana reusable shopping tote, free meal coupons, or even $20 in flea market cash.

8. Auctions

There’s an auction house on property. If you are looking to upcycle, re-purpose or find a unique item, try bidding at the Antique & Miscellaneous Auction. It happens every Wednesday starting at 9:00 am in the Auction building. You can even preview items on Tuesdays.

Need a place to stay overnight? The Farmstead Inn is located directly across the street. All overnight guests receive free parking to the flea market.

You can download the free Shipshewana Flea Market Trip Planner for more tips and tricks for shopping to the Midwest’s Largest Flea Market.