Long Island’s flea markets hold a special place in the memories of many residents, offering a unique blend of shopping and treasure-hunting experiences. Before the age of online marketplaces like eBay, flea markets were vibrant hubs of activity where families and friends would spend weekends together, exploring a plethora of eclectic items.
One such iconic flea market was the Roosevelt Raceway Flea Market in Westbury, known as the nation’s largest with thousands of vendors and tens of thousands of visitors. Established in the parking lot of a former auto racetrack, the market became a bustling destination for enthusiasts seeking anything from comic books and baseball cards to vintage records and tapes.
Andrew Arnell, a Merrick native, fondly recalls his childhood visits to the Roosevelt Raceway Flea Market, where he immersed himself in the vibrant atmosphere, surrounded by vendors and local characters like the famous pickle man. The market’s closure in 1995 marked the end of an era, transitioning the site into the Gallery at Westbury Plaza.
Another notable flea market was Century’s 110 Drive-In Theatre Flea Market in Melville, an offshoot of the Century movie theater chain. Glenn Andreiev, a film historian, reminisces about his family outings to the market, where he indulged in science-fiction paperbacks and horror-comics magazines. The market’s diverse offerings, from clothes to car parts, catered to a wide range of interests, attracting visitors of all ages.
Luciano Apadula, owner of Greenhouse Antiques, recalls his childhood visits to the 110 Flea Market, where he discovered treasures like an Evel Knievel action figure. The market’s closure in 1976 marked the end of an era, paving the way for new developments on the property.
The Republic Airport Flea Market in East Farmingdale provided a new venue for vendors and shoppers after the closure of the 110 Flea Market in Melville. With a vast indoor space and ample parking, the market offered a diverse array of goods, attracting crowds of bargain hunters. However, the market’s closure in 1988 signaled the end of this chapter in Long Island’s flea market history.
Valley Stream Flea Market, situated on the grounds of a former drive-in theater, continued the tradition of flea markets in the region. Operating for decades, the market served as a popular destination for shoppers seeking unique finds. Its closure in 2014 marked the end of an era, making way for new developments in the area.
Busy Bee Mall, an indoor flea market, offered a unique shopping experience with its vendor tables and diverse merchandise. Frequented by locals and visitors alike, the mall provided a bustling environment for shoppers to explore a variety of goods. Despite its closure in 2000, Busy Bee Mall left a lasting impression on those who frequented its three locations.
As the landscape of flea markets continues to evolve, these nostalgic memories serve as a reminder of a bygone era when weekends were spent scouring for hidden treasures amidst the hustle and bustle of Long Island’s vibrant markets.