Every year, the Keokuk County Fairgrounds play host to a MASSIVE flea market, and the first one of the year is only a few weeks away!

When it comes to flea markets, the What Cheer Flea Market is one of the biggest and best here in the Midwest. It's been going on for over 45 years! There are three weekends of the market each year, and the very first for 2023 is set for Friday, May 5th through Sunday, May 7th. If you're too eager to wait, early bird shoppers can pay a little extra to visit a day early on Thursday, May 4th.

What Cheer Flea Market, Facebook
What Cheer Flea Market, Facebook
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Whatever you're looking for, the What Cheer Flea Market is bound to have it. The website promises antiques, collectibles, tools, jewelry, furniture, glassware, military memorabilia, and more. The final 2022 market featured 450 vendors on over 20 acres of land! The event page reads:

"We have vendors from 12 different states and we get shoppers from about 33 states at each flea market!"

The What Cheer Flea Market website has a few tips for shoppers who plan to attend the first market of the year. First of all, it's important to wear comfortable shoes and bring bags, a wagon, or a cart for your purchases. There's a LOT of walking involved, so you need to be prepared for that. Golf carts are allowed for people who are physically unable to get around the grounds. It's also worth noting that Saturday typically has the biggest crowds and the most traffic, so there will be longer waits. And finally, there are food vendors and ATMs on the grounds, as well as an information booth and a lost & found. You can check out all the shopper information HERE.

What Cheer Flea Market, Facebook
What Cheer Flea Market, Facebook
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On Thursday, May 4th, early bird shoppers will be able to visit the What Cheer Flea Market from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a $5 entry fee. Here are the hours and prices for the rest of the weekend:

  • Friday, May 5th
    • 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • $3 entry fee
  • Saturday, May 6th
    • 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • $3 entry fee
  • Sunday, May 7th
    • 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
    • Entry is FREE

After the May market, the next one won't happen until August 4th through 6th. The final event is set for October 6th through October 8th.

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