Everyone loves a good flea market, and what’s not to love? The various goods for sale, the air of excitement, the food trucks serving decadent treats…it all adds up to an unforgettable experience. When you visit the twice-annual flea market in Brownville – located in the southeastern corner of the state – you’ll find what may very well be the largest flea market in Nebraska. It’s always worth the trip to experience this remarkable event.
For most of the year, Brownville is a quiet little hamlet with a population of fewer than 150 people.
Brownville Historical Society Flea Market/Facebook
But twice a year - once on Memorial Day weekend and again on the last weekend in September - it transforms into a massive flea market.
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The Brownville Historical Society Flea Market has been a beloved event since 1957. Shoppers and vendors alike plan all year for these remarkable markets that bring in thousands of shoppers.
Brownville Historical Society Flea Market/Facebook
The flea market stretches all the way across Brownville’s Main Street, covering around half a mile with booths on both sides of the street. You’ll even find a few more booths tucked away a bit off of the main strip.
Brownville Historical Society Flea Market/Facebook
The spring event attracts around 300 vendors, while the fall event is usually a little smaller at around 250. No matter how many booths are set up, the crowds are always large and eager to find their next great treasure.
Brownville Historical Society Flea Market/Facebook
The usual inventory is anything but “usual.” There’s a whole lot of folk art on offer, mostly created by Nebraska artists. Handcrafted jewelry and home decor are other popular items. You’ll also find plenty of products that you’d expect to see at any flea market, like brand-new overstock retail items.
Susan Mattinson/Google Local
Other popular items you’ll find at vendors’ booths are antiques and collectibles, which are always fun to poke through. You can pick up vintage tractor parts, antique glass electrical insulators, old signs, interesting old appliances, and so, so much more.
Susan Mattinson/Google Local
Shopping is the focus of the flea markets, for sure, but you may also be treated to some live music. Food and drink vendors are a big part of the experience. We wholeheartedly recommend a giant bag of fresh kettle corn and a locally-brewed root beer to enjoy as you wander the street.
Susan Mattinson/Google Local
Be sure to bring cash because most vendors don’t accept cards. There’s only one ATM in Brownville, so plan ahead! Bathrooms - both the modern indoor kind and the port-a-potty type - and garbage cans are available throughout the town.
Susan Mattinson/Google Local
You can learn more about this unforgettable market on the Brownville Historical Society Flea Market’s Facebook page or website. Have you ever attended this well-known flea market in the southeastern corner of Nebraska? What were your favorite finds there? Tell us all about it in the comments!
Brownville Historical Society Flea Market/Facebook
Susan Mattinson/Google Local
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Address: Brownville, NE 68321, USA
