Stepping foot into the Berryessa Flea Market in East San Jose already feels like entering a bustling new world brimming with color and energy, but the Pop-Up SJ vintage market still manages to add a fresh coat of paint with its eclectic mix of retro treasures.
Attracting many young thrifters and style seekers to the center of the market, Pop-Up SJ is held on the second and fourth Fridays and Saturdays of every month, transforming the market into a bustling hub for everything vintage and Y2K.
Over the years, Pop-Up SJ has become a beloved destination for vintage enthusiasts across the bay, filled to the brim with racks of clothing ranging from grunge flannels to 2000s boy band graphic tees. Beyond the sprawling aisles of clothing, Pop-Up SJ is complete with a myriad of other attractions: live music performances, a bustling food court and even a merry-go-round — offering something for every visitor.
“Having been a former vintage clothing vendor at several vintage flea markets myself for several years … I, as well as many others, felt that San Jose also ought to have a similar event that our community can regularly look forward to,” Pop-Up SJ founder Dre Lucero said. “In that sense, I believe I have succeeded in what I set out to do with Pop-Up SJ.”
Collaborating with other Bay Area vintage vendors, Lucero began hosting San Jose’s very first vintage market at the Berryessa Flea Market in October 2020 with the goal of creating opportunities for small business owners to sell their goods and bounce back from COVID. Through rain or shine, Pop-Up SJ has never canceled an event since opening four years ago, showing its commitment to providing a platform for small business owners to thrive.
This dedication has solidified Pop-Up SJ as a launch pad for entrepreneurs, offering an easy application process and open-door policy for aspiring vendors. Lucero and the other managers at Pop-Up SJ welcome anyone, from seasoned vintage fashionistas to newcomers, to set up shop.
“After vending for around one year at Pop-Up SJ, I can confidently say that they have been a super steady and reliable source of income,” Zander Dough, owner of Dough Boys Vintage said. “Each time I sell here, I have always felt supported by the upper management and have never failed to make a profit.”
Several vendors such as Virgo Vintage and Cornerstone Gallery who began their careers with pop-up stalls at Pop-Up SJ have even transitioned into permanent brick-and-mortar stores across the Bay Area. For many, the market’s inclusive and supportive environment has been instrumental in their success.
“The community of vendors here are all kind people who create an inviting atmosphere, making each visit special,” Oscar Rios, employee of Cool Cat Classics said. “I’ve been frequenting Pop-Up SJ since 2021, both as a shopper and a seller, and every experience has been incredibly positive.”
Lucero credits Pop-Up SJ’s success to the support that shoppers and vendors show one another; he said the enthusiasm that shoppers bring to the event is infectious, and all the vendors are incredibly friendly and welcoming.
“As its organizer, I do run Pop-Up SJ through planning and marketing, but the heart and soul of the event are the strong community of both shoppers and vendors we have here. Without one or the other, Pop-Up SJ ceases to exist,” Lucero said. “Having helped create that community has been very special.”
Pop-Up SJ takes place on the second and fourth Fridays and Saturdays of every month. Find more information here.
