Braving the cold at a wintertime flea market

When you think about flea markets and street fairs, most picture a warm day in the spring, summer or fall. But along Sunrise Highway, travelers on Sundays have likely passed the winter flea market in Merrick — and it’s a great place to get out of the house, stretch your legs and shop around for a trinket or two through the cold months of January, February and March.

The flea market happens every weekend, thanks to a collaboration with Nassau County Fairs and the Merrick Chamber of Commerce. There’s plenty of parking and free admission. The entrance is in the parking lot of the corner of Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue, at 1 Broadcast Plaza, Merrick.

Since Nov. 26, travelers from near and far have flocked to the fair. Vendors present a unique selection of items, including but not limited to antiques, jewelry, pocketbooks, footwear and more.

If vendors want to sign up for the fair which takes place on Sundays only, it’s $50 a slot. Each vendor will get two parking spaces — one for their vehicle and one to sell items. Vendors can begin setting up for the fair’s opening at 8 a.m. The fair closes at 5 p.m.

If you’re planning to attend, fair supervisors recommend dressing warmly and bringing an umbrella. In cases of severe weather, the market will close. There’s a bathrooms on site, and sometimes food vendors as well.

There’s something for everyone at the flea market. On Jan. 14, vendor John McCarthy displayed a variety of antiques and jewelry, while Rufino Reyes had bags, wallets and more for sale. It’s not the holiday season any longer, but you never know what you may find.

For more information on the market, and ones taking place nearby, visit NassauCountyFairs.com or call (516) 442-6000. The last weekend for the fair is March 31.

~ Jordan Vallone