Who said Small Business Saturday has to be limited to once a year? We certainly don’t think so. From sidewalk pop-up shops to outdoor markets, the Valley’s got you covered if you’re looking to support your neighbors instead of, I don’t know, going to the mall. And, to be sure, you can have a lot of fun shopping small.
That’s because, from Topanga to Burbank, your neighbors are beaming with creativity. The Valley’s neighborhoods are each unique, so no two markets are ever the same. Read: With this list, you can have a new shopping experience every weekend of the year.
Plus, some of these pop-ups and markets are highly creative, meaning you can expect visual art, dancing, and musical talent. Dates and locations vary, so make sure to check the event’s Instagram page for the most accurate updates.
Now, without further ado, keep reading to find 10 pop-up shops and outdoor markets to add to your San Fernando Valley social calendar.
10 pop-up shops and outdoor markets in the San Fernando Valley
Where: Victory Blvd. and Mason Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91306
When: Fourth Sunday of every month, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
One of the oldest markets in the Valley, the Topanga Vintage Market celebrated its 10th anniversary this year (!!!). Head over bright and early for the most eclectic home and wardrobe finds. It costs $5 to enter, but you’re basically paying for a real-life treasure-hunting experience. And let’s be real, you’ll take every opportunity to say, “I thrifted it,†whenever someone asks you where you got that jacket (or couch, or lamp, or pillow).
2. Cafe Aficionado’s Pop-Ups
Where: 8904 Reseda Blvd., Northridge, CA 91324
When: Various weekends and times
This family-owned cafe is the definition of “community oriented.†Recognizing the struggles that their fellow small businesses faced during the pandemic, the owners of Cafe Aficionado formed Summer Night Series, which is 5-8:30 p.m. on Fridays, as well as Weekend Pop-Ups (on Saturday and Sunday mornings), providing affordable vendor spaces and much-needed community support. At the pop-up, you can find a variety of goodies, including plants, candles, apparel, baked goods, and more.
Where: 6300 Balboa Blvd., Encino, CA 91406
When: Dates vary, noon-4 p.m.
You might not be going to Lake Balboa to get shopping done, but keep an eye out for El Valle Pop-Ups near the Balboa Boulevard entrance for hand-crafted goods, houseplants, and more. You can also grab a treat from one of several food vendors before you pedal out to the lake on one of the park’s signature swan boats.
4. San Fernando Outdoor Market
Where: 911 San Fernando Road, San Fernando, CA 91340
When: Fourth Saturday of the month, 5-9 p.m.
If you’re looking to escape the Valley heat but still want to show small businesses love, head over to the San Fernando Outdoor Market. Taking over the block between Brand Boulevard and Maclay Avenue, the Valley’s namesake city comes alive on the fourth Saturday of every month, with over 80 vendors and storefronts combined and a classic car showcase as well as live performances and a makeshift dance floor.
Where: Saticoy Street and Louise Avenue
When: Dates vary, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Another place you can find an amazing community experience for free? The plaza that’s home to Valley staples like Needle Pushers, Galaxy of Comics, and Rose Garden Barbershop. Each event intentionally offers something a little different, but you can expect a few things every time, says the event’s Instagram bio: to “Shop local artists. Catch a groove. Make connections.”
Where: 5050 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood, CA 91601
When: First weekend of every month; October-June, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; July-September, 3-8 p.m.
This tea and coffee shop (truly a neighborhood favorite) does it all: trivia, paint nights, and a monthly art market. While Teapop already features a rotation of budding artists’ pieces each month, they’re providing even more opportunities for other artists and artisans to showcase their work on a monthly basis.
Where: Locations vary
When: Dates vary
As its name gives away, this market is in the west Valley neighborhood of Chatsworth. There are always different vendors there, so you’ll find pretty much anything you can think of—and probably some stuff you wouldn’t even have dreamed. Make sure to check their Instagram to know when and where the market’s happening.
Where: Locations vary
When: Dates vary
Local shopping for charity? Say less. Taking advantage of The 513’s al-fresco dining space in the heart of the NoHo Arts District, this woman-founded pop-up shop offers themed photoshoots for your furry friend, plant vendors, jewelry vendors, and more. Even better, a percentage of all vendor sales goes to a different progressive cause each month.
Where: Locations vary
When: Dates vary
A Latina-owned and operated business, 818 Pop-Up Shop is the self-proclaimed original pop-up in the San Fernando Valley. Its mission is simple: support local small businesses! Through Great Gatsby-themed New Year’s parties and Halloween spook-taculars, Genevieve Marie — the market’s founder — keeps the joy in her community.
10. Main Street Canoga Park Farmers Market
Where: 7247 Owensmouth Ave., Canoga Park, CA 91303
When: Every Saturday, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
You might be thinking that because its name features the terms “farmers” and “market” you can only get produce at this event. But you’d be mistaken! You can also get fresh flowers, like those photographed below, tamales, and even crafted items. Even if you’re East Valley-based, the Main Street Canoga Park Farmers Market is well worth the trek.
