In the Dutchess County Spotlight

Now that the weather is staying nicer in Dutchess County, vendors are saving their spots at these local flea markets. While they're setting up their booths and tables, visitors can enjoy the variety of goods for sale! Here's a look at a few of many flea markets in Dutchess.

At Rinaldi's Flea Market, every Sunday at 900 Dutchess Turnpike / Route 44 in Poughkeepsie, people can buy or sell antiques, art, collectibles, jewelry, equipment and more. Owner Bill Rinaldi has been in the auction business for more than 40 years in this area. No need to be wary selling or finding hidden gems here. There's even vendors with food for sale! For more information, check out www.rinaldiauctions.com.

Here's the secret about the Beacon Flea Market, even though they are open for their second season on Sunday, May 6, their website www.beaconflea.blogspot.com is constantly telling readers about yard sales in the Hudson Valley. Like Rinaldi's, the Beacon Flea Market opens every Sunday from 8am until 3pm. People will be setting up shop at 6 Henry Street right off Main in Beacon; people won't miss this open parking lot!

Want to make a day out of a flea market? Going to the Stormville Airport Antique Show and Flea Market is a must. The space really is an airport and has room for more than 600 spots for sellers and food vendors. Merchandise varies, from local Hudson Valley goods and foods such as honey, salsa and beef jerky, to antiques and cozy decorations for your home. For people who are trying to save money on Halloween costumes, there's even a booth that has a "fill this bag for $15" kind of deal. In comparison to spending $40-$50 on a costume, that's a steal. Other holiday shows include their April's "Springtime in the Country" and "Christmas in November." Best part about Stormville? They're celebrating 42 years in business, so check them out at www.stormvilleairportfleamarktet.com. They also have a link to a sister site about the Ultimate Yard Sales, also held at this location!

An important thing to note about flea markets is that many vendors are independent from large companies; so many booths only accept cash. Credit cards are not your friends during these occasions! The best part about the flea market experience is keeping all kinds of goods changing hands locally - one man's trash is another ones' treasure! So reuse, reduce, recycle, and rejoice! Help one another de-clutter and also buy local. In the next few weeks, get some sunblock, comfortable shoes and come on down to a flea market near you!