Tony and Romea Tarnowski don’t come back to the Packwood Flea Market every year to make a lot of money, they said on Thursday night.
They’ve been a part of the event for 22 years because, Tony Tarknowski said, they get to meet new, interesting people every year, without fail.
A U.S. Navy Vietnam veteran and former wildland firefighter, Tarnowski’s booth at the flea market is packed with signs — a fan favorite, he said. Among the coolest, in his opinion, have Smokey the Bear or first responder symbols.
All weekend, his booth and dozens — possibly hundreds — of others will sell such items throughout downtown Packwood.
The flea market has it all: decor, knick knacks, tools, furniture, fishing tackle, dolls, ceramics, antiques or street food. It will run through Monday before it starts up again in 2024 for Memorial Day weekend.
The twice-a-year event brings thousands of people through Packwood and creates significant traffic — so travelers should plan for potential delays.
The flea market is held throughout Packwood over the weekend, but vendors close up for the day at varying hours. For the most action, head to Lewis County’s easternmost community before dinner time.
