In My Opinion...

I must admit, flea markets are one of my favorite activities to do any day of the week. The Philadelphia Flea Market offers the crowd a charming mix of venders. I have been a patron of this flea market for over four years, and each time I return, I find something interesting and new to keep me coming back for more. Some venders have been there every time I have frequented the flea market, but there is enough variety to keep it interesting. I have always gravitated towards flea markets that have friendly, outgoing venders. It is apparent that some venders love everything about flea market shopping and selling, and will tell you incredible stories of things they found and sold. The record selling population at this flea market is high. Almost all of the venders has a record or two for sale at their table, but a few were strictly selling records. Due to the unpredictability of the vender, the records come in all conditions. Sometimes you can get lucky and find a great condition Beatles album for $2, but other times someone is asking way too much money for a Barry Manilow album. I would definitely recommend keeping an open mind on what to expect from the venders. Unlike most stores, they have to lug the record around, so they are often open to negotiation. Start practicing those skills now! Overall, the flea market is a great way to spend a Saturday morning. Who knows, you might even score some sweet cufflinks, as I did last weekend. As you are leaving the flea market, definitely take a minute to check out the table of dips and cheeses in the left corner. They make a mean mozzarella, Cajun crab dip, and seeded baguette. 

What the people say...

This flea market is decent, but the record collections throughout the place always surprise me. I literally never know what to expect as I stroll down the isles. Could I find the next Beatle’s butcher album? Unlikely, but the hunt keeps me intrigued. I think this place has a lot of charm, and the venders and flea market go-ers enjoy the nostalgia of their childhood. Records are like that for me. I love holding an old piece of music that’s probably been played by various people over the last few decades. Flea markets are a once of a kind experience, and this one is worth checking out if you’re willing to keep your mind open.

-Gina, Flea Market Go-er

Record Breakdown

Type of Vinyl:  Primarily Used.

Trade-ins? No. 

Pricing: Depending on vender, but pretty cheap since it is a flea market.

Average Condition: The condition is a mixed bag. You could find a decent condition record for a quarter, and a quality condition record for a few bucks. It all depends on what you're looking for, truly. 

Digging Required? A lot. Since these are venders and not stores, the records tend to be quite unorgaized. If you're lucky they will be organized by genre.

Great for people looking for: Classic Rock, Jazz, Blues, Soundtracks, Rock, and Classical.