Tracing the origin of flea markets is next to impossible, but some historians believe that they were first conceptualized by the French in the 1880s. It came from the French marché aux puces, meaning “market of fleas,” because shoppers suspected that some of the goods sold in the market were infested by the bloodsuckers.
Another theory came around from colonial America. By the time Dutch traders were settling in New York, they put up an outdoor market called the Vlaie Market. Vlaie is Dutch for “swamp,” pertaining to the market’s location which used to be a salt marsh. Apparently English speakers pronounced the name with an “f” so it eventually became flea markets. Until now, Paris is still brimming with outdoor markets and bazaars like Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen, Les Puces de Montreuil, and Marché aux puces de la Porte de Vanves.
Today, flea markets have embedded themselves in almost every culture. They’re popular in the U.S. and across Europe, and they also made their way here in the Philippines. Flea markets aren’t just for selling your old stuff. It’s also an avenue for independent vendors and entrepreneurs. Things ranging from clothing, furniture, artworks, cosmetics, and novelty items can be found in flea markets.
If you don’t have anything planned this weekend, the creatives behind Eden & June organized Finders Keepers, a two-day flea market to be held in Taguig. Poppyluca, Sunday Paper, Mod Threads, Polly Patch, and more merchants will be at the event. Live music, food, and art workshops are also in store for everyone who’s attending. For more information, you can visit their website at www.edenandjune.com.