Cincinnatians can enjoy a number of fall and winter markets

If you haven’t been able to catch The City Flea yet this year, no need to worry. There are still a few markets left on the 2024 docket sure to leave you with a lighter wallet and one-of-a-kind finds.

Nick Dewald, co-founder and organizer of The City Flea, started the event in 2011 with his partner Lindsay as Cincinnati’s “original curated, urban flea market.” As two people who have lived in Chicago, Los Angeles and Brooklyn, the couple took inspiration from these cities when they moved back to the Queen City and began The City Flea. The market now takes place once a month at Washington Park and various other locations throughout the year.

This year, there have already been eight City Flea markets, mostly at Washington Park. The Spring Vintage Market and Fall Vintage Market, though, were held at Factory 52. Dewald hopes that these vintage markets can provide visitors with a “unique shopping experience full of one-of-a-kind finds in a time when shopping is becoming less and less memorable.”

Anyone who has visited a City Flea market knows that it is memorable, and if you haven’t caught any of these 2024 markets yet, you still have time.

In December, there will be three Holiday markets that are can’t-miss events. On Dec. 7 and 8 at Factory 52, The City Flea will have its first two official winter Holiday markets. On Dec. 14, you can catch the last market of the year at Washington Park. Vendors will be out in full force for Christmas and holiday shopping.

Dewald shares that this year, there have been many standout vendors, especially at the Vintage Markets. On the Prowl Vintage, from the same people who own mega-popular The Daily Vintage near Findlay Market in Over-the-Rhine, has a spot at The City Flea, and Generations Vintage, who will be opening a shop in Northside very soon, is also a must-visit. Odd Stock Co., which sells in person, online and through several local retailers, begs a second look when passing by.

Some local businesses have started as vendors at The City Flea, proving that the event can also work as a small business incubator.

The City Flea also helps to keep Cincinnatians dollars local by supporting small businesses and experiencing the city in a unique and engaging way, according to its website.

“Whether it’s Washington Park or Factory 52, people love a good excuse to enjoy their city,” DeWald says. “The City Flea provides a reliable experience that can be as quick or drawn out as you want and can easily be complemented by other local sites or businesses nearby. You feel really good about Cincinnati when you work The City Flea into your day.”