About This Festival

The Friendship Flea Market in Friendship, Ripley County, Indiana, is a longstanding biannual event held twice a year in June and September. The 2025 June event runs from June 14 to June 22, open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It is located on SR 62, about one mile east of Friendship, offering free admission with a $3 parking fee. The flea market features almost 500 vendor spaces selling a wide variety of items including guns, knives, jewelry, antiques, and specialty foods.

The event creates a lively, bustling atmosphere as it transforms the small community into a large marketplace drawing visitors from around the region. The roads within the flea market area are blacktopped, ensuring accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs, enhancing its family-friendly vibe. It is handicapped accessible and offers camping nearby, as well as local hotel accommodations for longer stays.

Activities and Entertainment:

  • Shopping from hundreds of vendors in diverse merchandise categories.
  • Evening live music and campfires, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. For example, in the fall event, bands like The Renegades and The Bourbon Road Band perform from 8 PM to midnight.
  • Horse-drawn trolley rides connect the flea market to the town, adding to the community feel.
  • Camping for visitors who want extended attendance.
  • Food vendors providing a variety of specialty foods.

Rough Schedule for June 2025 Session:

  • Daily market hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (June 14 - June 22)
  • Evening music and campfire events on weekends (typically Fridays and Saturdays)
  • Vendor booths operating throughout the market area during open hours

The flea market is deeply rooted in the community's history, having welcomed visitors since 1968, making it one of Indiana's most unique flea markets and antique shows. It has evolved into a well-organized, inclusive market with facilities supporting a family-friendly and accessible experience.

Surrounding Area and Vibe:

The event is set in the South Central Indiana countryside, giving visitors a small-town, friendly atmosphere amid rural charm. The market’s location on SR 62 near Friendship makes it easy to reach, and the adjacent town amenities support visitors with dining, lodging, and additional local attractions, making it ideal for a day trip or an extended visit.

Overall, the Friendship Flea Market combines community spirit, diverse shopping, entertainment, and accessible facilities to create a vibrant and welcoming event for families and collectors alike.