Flea markets offer shopping alternative

Depending on the native tongue, pulgas — better known as flea markets — are a Rio Grande Valley tradition that offers buyers and sellers alike a chance to find unique deals just about every weekend throughout the year.

The newest addition to the Valley’s outdoor markets is Mercado Delta, 510 N. Yellowjacket Drive in Elsa, which wrapped up its first season of operation last year. The venue is expected to open each weekend in November.

Unlike the other flea markets listed, the venue does not sell used items and places its focus on artisan goods, crafts, jewelry, paintings, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.

Just about every city in the Valley has its own flea market. And with restrictions that went into place this year requiring passports to go to Nuevo Progreso, flea markets can offer a taste of the crafts offered without crossing the Rio Grande.

The outdoor bazaars feature vendors from across the area who sell used goods and other unique items. Show up early in the morning to find the best deals.

Here is a sampling of many of the well-established flea markets across the region. Hours and days of operation vary at each market, so it may be a good idea to call ahead before you head out.

>> McAllen Flea Market, 2400 S. 23rd St., (956) 687-4513

>> Ochoa’s Flea Market, 4010 N. Conway Ave., Mission, (956) 580-1757

>> Los Portales Flea Market, 9503 Highway 107, Mission, (956) 519-3044

>> River Market, 910 S. Monterrey St., Hidalgo, (956) 843-9500

>> Don-Wes Flea Market Victoria Road and Business 83, Donna, (956) 464-3502

>> Val Verde Flea Market 941 W. Business 83, Donna, (956) 464-6633

>> Red Barn Flea Market 3041 W. Expressway 83, Mercedes, (956) 565-6566

>> Alamo Flea Market, 1602 W. Expressway 83, Alamo (956) 781-5650

>> Surplus Imports, Mile 1 1/2 at E. Expressway 83, Mercedes, (956) 565-3448

>> Seventy Seven Flea Market, 5955 N. Expressway 77/83, Brownsville, (956) 350-9425

>> Borders Flea Market, 1045 Mexico Blvd., Brownsville, (956) 541-6900