The 40th edition of one of Manitoba’s largest flea markets is set to take over Boissevain this weekend. The Dunrea Flea Market, which is a joint initiative between the Kinsmen and Kinette Clubs of Boissevain, is scheduled for Sunday at the Boissevain Fair Grounds. The event got its start in 1985 in Dunrea, Man., as a way to raise money for the community’s rink. The event then remained in the community for several years before it moved to Boissevain in 2010. Over time, the market has become an annual summer staple that’s only ever taken one year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The funny part about the market is that it’s consistently changing, and yet it seems to continue to bring new people every year,” said Brandt Bessant, one of the event organizers. “I know from helping with volunteers and being the registrar and stuff like that the different people have come and gone. We’ve seen some people pass away. We’ve seen some people that have retired out of doing flea markets. We’ve seen a whole bunch of new people.” This year’s event is set to feature more than 135 vendors selling antiques, collectibles, crafts and more. Bessant said some of the unique offerings include moose antler carvings and yard art made of recycled materials. “Honest to goodness, if you can think of something, it’s probably going to show up at the market,” he said. “It is such an eclectic thing.” The event will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a $5 admission fee for anyone over the age of 12. Funds from the event go back into the community.
