There’s nothing like a good flea market to reflect a city’s essence.  Show me a sprawling, outdoor, market and I’ll show you the nuances and hallmark’s of the place it calls home. The Brooklyn Flea showcases all the artiness and whimsy of the borough’s people. Unlike New York’s other flea markets in Manhattan, the Brooklyn flea manages to give a sense of neighborliness and intimacy in big ,outdoor spaces. Held every Saturday in Fort Greene and Sunday in Williamsburgh through November, the Brooklyn Flea has developed into a can’t miss New York event.

Browse through the rows of 150 vendors in Fort Greene and 100 in Williamsburgh and pick up vintage rock and super hero t shirts, handmade jewelry, furniture, shoes, hats and everything in between. Forget touristy NY memorabilia and scout out authentic Brooklyn quirk.  On my last visit, I scored  a -t-shirt emblazoned  with the maze of the New York subway system for $10, a necklace crafted from recycled metal for $20 and a hand-dyed sun dress for $25.  And if you’re not a shopper, the Brooklyn flea also serves up a host of delicacies for foodies.  From lobster rolls,  to hot dogs topped with Vietnamese dishes and handcrafted popsicles, you can eat your way through the flea for hours. If you don’t like eating outside, head to 67 Burger, a popular emporium of custom made, gourmet burgers where you can choose the meat,  toppings and sides. Don’t miss the handmade shakes and floats.

Photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Flea