Expansion: By popular demand
Two of North Fort Myers most popular flea markets have recently added more days for local shopping.
The flea market is located at 2521 N. Tamiami Trail, at the site of the old drive-in movie theater. It is now open two days -Wednesdays and Saturdays, and The Shell Factory Flea Market is now open four days a week – Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Organizers of both venues said it is by popular demand, with more and more coming to shop.
The 2521 N. Tamiami Trail market has also added a concession stand called the Sunrise Cafe. “We do breakfast and lunch,” said manager Cheryl Bourque. “And it is the only place around where you can get a fried Twinkie.”
They have about 75 percent of vendors that rent space on a monthly basis; the rest are dailies. “Anyone can come,” she said, adding you need to call in advance. Sometimes, they have up to 200 vendors.
“Vendors come in and many know each other and talk. They really love it. We’ve recently opened 40 new spots, expanding for vendors.”
She said they also have plans to expand parking.
Of the new added Saturday date, she said, “Traditionally years ago we were open Saturdays and Sundays. The site was then rented to an auction company, but was then reclaimed by the old owners. We pack them in on Wednesdays – by 7 a.m. we are full. We definitely need to be open another day and chose Saturdays. We may open on Sundays in the future.
They start at 6 a.m. and go until 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Saturdays they will probably stay open later.
At the Shell Factory Flea Market, located at 2787 N. Tamiami Trail near the main entrance, Tuesdays were such a big hit that the organizers there expanded to Thursdays and Saturdays and have now started those Sundays.
“If you sign for the three days -Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday – you get Sunday free,” said organizer Richard Dunmire.
Of his vendors and crowds, he said, “It is fantastic, there are so many things. Right now, anything Christmas is sold quickly, Christmas decorations especially.”
Over the last four years the flea market has really grown, he said.
“Our vendors and customers, they know we are here now, especially on Tuesdays. We are the only market open from Port Charlotte to Naples on Tuesdays.”
To be a vendor at the 2521 N. Tamiami Trail location, call 849-1916.
To be a vendor at the Shell Factory call 243-7472.