The blend of punk rock and antiquing may seem unusual, but a unique flea market in the Lehigh Valley is proving that the two can coexist. Loud music, tattoos, piercings, and vintage items have come together to create an event that is gaining popularity across the region.
Matt Molchany, co-host of the event and a Bethlehem native, explains that the term “punk” has evolved beyond just music. “Punk is in the eye of the beholder,” he says. “It’s about a DIY spirit and a sensibility that falls outside the mainstream.” The flea market embraces this mentality, attracting vendors and visitors who align with punk’s rebellious and independent culture.
The next event will take place on Saturday, April 19, at the Ice House in Bethlehem, located at 56 River Street. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a free concert featuring four local punk bands. Both the market and concert are open to the public at no charge.
The idea for a punk rock flea market came after Molchany and his co-host Shamus McGroggan noticed similar events in cities like Philadelphia, Trenton, and Scranton, but nothing in the Lehigh Valley. “We thought, why not bring it here?” Molchany says. The event has since grown beyond their expectations. “Last year, we had over 1,000 people attend, and we expect even more this year.”
With over 50 vendors signed up, the market will spill out into the space outside the Ice House, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor shopping. Visitors can expect a wide variety of products, from vintage clothes and jewelry to more unconventional items like obscure tapes, skateboards, plants, and “curious goods” that defy categorization.
One of the standout vendors is Lewis Gentile, a local writer from Bethlehem who will be selling his zine, Nü Tunes. Zines, homemade magazines that were once a key part of the underground music scene, are making a comeback, and Gentile embraces the DIY ethos. “I wanted to take my Instagram music reviews and turn them into something physical,” he says. “This is a great way to get out of my comfort zone and connect with people in person.”
Maggie Sorber, a longtime vendor, brings her business Never Ending Glass Works to the market. She creates unique stained glass pieces, often featuring unusual designs such as skulls and cassette tapes. Sorber, who has been involved with the event since its inception, describes it as “community-driven and fun,” with proceeds often supporting charitable causes.
Artist Gabriella Gentile, also from Bethlehem, adds her distinctive, quirky artwork to the market. Known for her “weird, witchy” pottery, including mugs with eyeballs and sculptures of body parts, Gabriella appreciates the punk rock flea market for its acceptance of unconventional art. “It’s a great place to meet other artists and people in the community,” she says.
The event also fosters a strong sense of community. Molchany notes that many vendors are driven by the camaraderie of the event rather than purely by profit. “It’s about having fun and connecting with others.”
This year, the market will include a donation drive for Valley Youth House’s Synergy Project Street Outreach Program, which supports homeless youth in the area. Visitors are encouraged to bring items such as socks, soap, and non-perishable food to help those in need. “The punk community here really cares about people,” Molchany says.
The Punk Rock Flea Market at the Ice House is a vibrant celebration of local creativity, community spirit, and charitable giving, all wrapped in the energy of punk rock culture.
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