Every first Sunday of the month, I find myself drawn to the Alameda Point Antiques Faire, a sprawling vintage treasure hunt held on the oak-lined runways of Alameda Point. With hundreds of booths offering antiques, artisan crafts, and international eats, the Faire feels like stepping into a storybook filled with nostalgia and discovery. Each visit surprises me in new ways, and I’m excited to share what makes this Northern California tradition feel both lively and timeless.
Market Details
- Market Name: Alameda Point Antiques Faire
- Address: 3900 Main St, Alameda, CA 94501
- Opening Hours:
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 6 AM–3 PM |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
Parking, Tickets & Transportation
I always arrive early to snag easy free parking on the fairgrounds; it fills fast, so getting there before the rush matters. A shuttle runs throughout the event to bring shoppers from the parking lot to the entrance, which is a real convenience when you’re loaded down with finds. Entry prices vary by time: I’ve tried the VIP window (just $20 for access starting at 6 AM), but the mid-morning rate of $10 feels like the perfect balance between access and value.
Vendor Information
Vendors here truly curate the vintage. I once watched a dealer unpack decades-old mid-century lamps, another displayed handmade heirloom quilts, and someone even had a stack of rare vinyl records that made my heart skip a beat. Booths start at $155 for a 15 x 20 space, with options to add tables for $10. Spaces go fast, and reservations are handled online.
Tips for First Timers
I always bring a tote or little cart; some of my best finds are large. Cash helps, as some vendors only accept it. Wear comfortable shoes, because I’ve clocked serious miles between rows. I also recommend staying through lunch; the food vendors can be a highlight, serving everything from tacos to international street bites.
Why Alameda Point Antiques Faire Is a Must-Visit
This market feels more like a monthly celebration than a sale. It blends antiques with art, old stories with new friends. Watching families wander together, collectors bargaining in hushed tones, and creatives snapping styling shots against vintage backdrops reminds me why Saturday mornings don’t feel quite right without the Faire.
Instagram-worthy Market Moments
One of my favorite photos was a row of faded leather suitcases lit by morning sun, each scuffed corner told a story. Another time, I captured a vendor surrounded by colorful Victorian brooches that gleamed like tiny treasures. Around every corner, there’s a shot that combines history and personality.
FAQs
When is the Alameda Point Antiques Faire held?
It takes place on the first Sunday of every month, rain or shine, from 6 AM to 3 PM.
How much does admission cost?
Admission varies by time: VIP early entry (6–7:30 AM) is $20; early entry (7:30–9 AM) is $15; mid-morning entry (9–12 PM) is $10; afternoon entry (12–3 PM) is $5. Children under 12 enter free with a parent.
Is there parking and a shuttle?
Yes. Parking is free on-site, and a shuttle runs between the parking area and the Faire entrance for easy access.
What can I expect to find?
With over 800 vendor booths, you can find furniture, jewelry, books, art, clothing, décor, and collectibles, all at least 20 years old.
How do I become a vendor?
Booth reservations start at $155, with add-on tables for a small fee. All arrangements are handled via the vendor section on the Faire’s official website.
Are pets allowed?
No, since the Faire is in a wildlife sanctuary, only service dogs are permitted.
Final Thoughts
The Alameda Point Antiques Faire is a Sunday ritual that always leaves me inspired, bag filled, and smiling. Whether hunting for a rare vinyl find, a quirky antique mirror, or just soaking in the retro atmosphere, there’s something here for every kind of treasure seeker. If you ever plan to go, wake up early, bring your curiosity, and let me know if you’d like tips for pairing the visit with brunch nearby.
