FLEA MARKET FACTS: INSIDER INFORMATION TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE THE EVENT

Vendor booths display nautical products for sale. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

In its early beginnings, the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market had 35 vendors and a handful of Rotary club members volunteering to help operate it. In 2023, hundreds of vendors now pack the event and the Upper Keys Rotary Club will join forces with the Key Largo Rotary Club to utilize nearly 300 volunteer workers from the community.

In the decade from 2012 and 2022, the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market has raised about $750,000 in scholarship funding to benefit local students. In the last 28 months, direct benefits were paid to 21 colleges and universities to assist 182 local students. In addition to the direct benefits, the two Rotary clubs gave over $60,000 to Take Stock in Children in each of the last two years. That money, matched by the Florida Legislature, stays in Monroe County and guarantees middle and high school students a full college scholarship as long as they stay in school and out of trouble while maintain a C average.

The Rotary Gigantic Nautical Flea Market involves the community in a “Gigantic” investment in our local youth. 

Now for some insider tips to make your experience a little easier. 

Interact Club students from Coral Shores High School welcome flea market attendees at the front gate. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO

NEED CASH? 

  • Three ATMs are located on the grounds: At the front gate, at the front of the great lawn and at the back of the great lawn.

DOGS ARE WELCOME, 

BUT BLACKTOP IS HOT!

  • Leashed dogs are allowed. However, if the sun is shining on a hot day, the blacktop will be extremely hot on your furry friend’s paws. 

WHERE’S THE BATHROOM?

  • Porta potties are scattered everywhere at the park.
  • The lavatory by the beach is usually very busy.
  • Secret bathrooms? There’s a facility across from the tennis courts and another at the front of the park, across from the Chamber of Commerce building. 

HOW DO I FIND SPECIFIC VENDORS, FOOD TRUCKS & BOATS?