Shipshewana Flea Market

The Shipshewana Flea Market, located on the Shipshewana Flea Market Grounds in Shipshewana, Indiana, is the Midwest's largest flea market, operating mid-May through early October. It is open every Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm during its regular season from May 6 through October 1, 2025, featuring over 700 open-air booths spread across 40 acres. Special extended weekend markets occur Memorial Day weekend (May 26-28), the third weekend in June (June 20-21), the first weekend of August (August 1-2), and Labor Day weekend (September 1-3). The market offers an extensive variety of goods from hundreds of vendors alongside weekly auctions and a large RV park for visitors staying on-site.

The area surrounding the event in Shipshewana, LaGrange County, reflects a small-town, rural vibe with a strong Amish cultural influence, which makes the shopping experience unique with handcrafted goods and traditional items. The market grounds themselves offer a spacious and open environment ideal for browsing a wide range of products, from antiques and collectibles to crafts, food, and household items. Parking is available for a fee, and the market is handicapped accessible.

The vibe during the market days is typically lively and community-oriented, attracting both local residents and tourists who enjoy exploring the diverse vendor offerings and social atmosphere. The market is family-friendly and focused on community and family engagement.

Key activities and events at the Shipshewana Flea Market include:

• Shopping from over 700 open-air vendor booths featuring antiques, crafts, fresh produce, household items, and unique finds.
• Weekly Antique and Livestock auctions held on Wednesdays year-round.
• Special weekend markets with extended hours, door prize contests, and giveaways, such as the August "Mother/Daughter Days" featuring hourly door prizes, contests, and a grand prize stay at the Farmstead Inn.
• Food vendors offering a variety of onsite dining options.
• Additional community events like swap meets and craft shows occur on Saturdays, alongside open shops in nearby downtown Shipshewana.

Rough schedule during the season (May to October 2025):

• Tuesdays & Wednesdays: Regular market days, 8 am – 4 pm.
• Memorial Day Weekend (May 26-28): Special extended market, 8 am – 4 pm.
• June Weekend Market (June 20-21): Friday & Saturday extended market with special events.
• No market on July 4th.
• August Weekend Market (August 1-2): Friday & Saturday special event with contests, door prizes, and extra vendor activities.
• Labor Day Weekend (September 1-3): Extended market.
• Regular season closes October 1, 2025.

History and Founding:
The Shipshewana Flea Market is operated by the Shipshewana Trading Place, which has grown over the years into the largest flea market in the Midwest. It has developed a reputation for quality, variety, and a vibrant community atmosphere deeply connected with the local cultural heritage. It serves as a longstanding destination for shoppers looking for unique goods and an authentic regional experience.

This blend of shopping, community events, auctions, and local culture makes the Shipshewana Flea Market a unique, engaging event on the annual calendar for the region.