A barter fair can mean different things to different people. Essentially though, a barter fair is where people come together as a community to trade goods, stories, and knowledge. Barter faire’s can resemble a flea market or a festival setting where people camp out together. The Rainbow Gathering  is a beautiful example of how great a gift economy can be and how well it can work.

Unfortunately, Santa Cruz and the greater Bay Area does not host Barter Faires too often. However, the Santa Cruz Flea Market adheres to a barter system and is a great place to start.

Skyview (Santa Cruz) Flea Market

2260 Soquel Dr.

Santa Cruz, CA 95065

831.462.4442

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

This large flea market brings together people from all over Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay Area. There is almost an overwhelming array of goods to pick from where amazing gems are mixed in with what some might interpret as junk. There is a vibrant and chaotic energy in the air as one navigates through the rows and rows of items. Once you find something you like it is perfectly acceptable, if not expected, that you will barter for this item. Don’t be too shy and you can leave the market with some incredible finds at a super low cost!