Just spent the past weekend at the Canfield swap meet, as a vender, for over 15 years. It has turned into a flea market more than a swap meet. The people beside us, were selling tied dye t-shirts an toilet seats. We noticed people walking by with fishing rods, weed whackers, golf clubs etc. No more Rod parts dealers, not even the dreaded Mustang and Camaro dealers. Very sad.
It is typical of the times. If the organizers don't specify AUTO parts, what do you expect. I have seen many formerly good swap meet / flea markets go down the tubes over the years. There were many meets that I have gone to, but now I won't waste my time, effort, or money to look at yard sale stuff.
I was able to buy some things there.Car corral was pretty big too....I just walk right past anything that doesn't look car related I'm on a mission and that is a pretty big meet.No time to goof around!
I haven't been to a swap meet since covid started, and I will not be going again. A sad testament to where our is hobby is headed! KK
At the risk of causing a stir, I would say that in my limited experience, flea market buyers are happier and spend more money than hot rodders. I do way better with vintage items to young people and housewives than I ever do at the swap meet, likely because I leave the good stuff at home. Most of my items sell for less than 50 dollars. I think a smart organizer would put the car related vendors together in their own area of the bigger event.