The Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet is one of the most active and friendly music spots in the southeastern part of Los Angeles County. When attendees walk in, they notice loud music playing attracting them to the main stage in the center of the venue. As attendees walk closer they pass food stands, small shops, bright lights and families moving through the aisles.
When they reach the stage area attendees find long rows of benches set up under a large black tent giving everyone a shaded place to sit and enjoy the show. On the weekends the stage fills with bands, dancers and performers playing everything from cumbia to old school rock. The crowd is a mix of teens, families, friend groups, couples and seniors. Which are all sitting or dancing enjoying the music.
It feels lively, welcoming and warm for all. The music, food and friendly atmosphere blend together to create a space that feels safe and familiar especially for Hispanic families who see their culture represented on stage and in the crowd.
The swap meet didn’t begin as a music venue. In the 1940’s it started as a drive-in theater then later involved into a flea market. In the 90s many swap meets were transformed into music venues for local bands. A simple outdoor market where local families could shop for clothes, tools, toys and everyday items…