Founded in 2008 by Jonathan Butler, creator of Brownstoner Magazine,[1] and Eric Demby, the former communications director for Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Flea runs several of the largest flea markets on the East Coast of the United States.

From early April until late November, the flea markets are located at Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School in Fort Greene on Saturdays and at the Williamsburg waterfront on Sundays.

[4] In July 2015, Smorgasburg Queens launched an outdoor lot and indoor building location with hours every Saturday in Long Island City.

[7] In 2009, the Flea received a Certificate of Merit from the Municipal Art Society for making an “exceptional contribution to the life of New York City,” and for “providing an alternative to big-box retail that embodies a private sector spirit while yielding generous public benefits.

"[9] In 2011, Brooklyn Flea opened "Smorgasburg," an all-food market on Saturdays at their Williamsburg waterfront location focusing on local and artisanal fare.